Mining company Boliden Somincor has announced a joint agreement with EDP Comercial and Greenvolt Next to develop the largest self-consumption solar plant on Portuguese soil. This new photovoltaic installation, located on land at the Neves-Corvo mine in Castro Verde, will have a capacity of 49 MWp and will cover approximately 55 hectares within the mining concession area.
With an estimated generation close to 100 GWh per year, the solar park will supply around 33% of Boliden Somincor’s total electricity consumption. This step represents a key transformation for the mining complex, which aims to strengthen its energy independence and reduce its exposure to electricity market volatility.
Decarbonization and territorial impact
One of the project’s most notable achievements is its potential to reduce more than 41,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year. This progress aligns with global decarbonization goals and strengthens the company’s position as a sustainability benchmark within the European mining sector.
In addition to its environmental impact, the development will directly involve around 200 people throughout the installation process, boosting the local economy of Baixo Alentejo.
The plant will be built and managed in collaboration with EDP and Greenvolt for at least 12 years. This synergy highlights the Portuguese industry’s ability to lead large-scale decentralized energy projects. Both the supply of equipment and the expansion of the electrical substation are included in the execution package.
Solar plant operational in 2026
The solar infrastructure is expected to be fully operational in the second half of 2026, marking a turning point in Boliden Somincor’s sustainability strategy.
This move confirms that mining and renewables can move forward hand in hand toward a more efficient and resilient economy, with tangible benefits for both industry and local communities.
Source and photo: EDP