Environmental Concerns Arise Over Planned Solar Park in Portugal

A planned solar project in Portugal's Castelo Branco district is facing significant opposition from environmental organizations and local municipalities. The Sophia Photovoltaic Solar Park, proposed by Lightsource bp, aims to generate 867 megawatts of power, with an investment of approximately 590 million dollars.

It is expected to supply energy to over 370 thousand homes and reduce carbon emissions by approximately 24 thousand 500 tons annually, aligning with Portugal's National Energy and Climate Plan for 2030.

Public engagement has been substantial, with over 10 thousand comments received during the consultation phase that ended on November 20, making it the most participatory public consultation on a project to date.

Critics argue the project threatens local landscapes and biodiversity, particularly as it overlaps with the UNESCO-recognized Naturtejo World Geopark. The Environmental Impact Study indicates the construction phase could lead to deforestation, habitat destruction, and negative effects on local fauna.

It highlights that 1,120 holm oaks and 421 cork oaks will be felled, raising concerns about the ecological consequences. Joao Lobo, mayor of Proenca-a-Nova and president of the Beira Baixa Intermunicipal Community, expressed that the project could degrade the region's landscape and tourism potential.

Environmental groups, including the Zero association, QUERCUS, and FAPAS, have raised alarms about the implications of the park's size and its environmental footprint, advocating for more comprehensive planning that balances energy needs with ecological preservation.

Lightsource bp argues that the project includes protective measures for local ecosystems and plans to rehabilitate areas by converting eucalyptus forests into native oak stands. Despite assurances from Lightsource bp regarding community engagement and environmental protections, criticisms persist concerning the lack of thorough public consultation and the project's potential irreversible impacts.

The firm aims to address these concerns by organizing participatory sessions and allowing for further adjustments based on public feedback. The project remains in its initial licensing phase, with operations expected to commence in 2030, indicating a long road ahead in balancing renewable energy development with local ecological and community interests.