Why is Greece launching a battery storage auction?

Initially a response to the COVID 19 pandemic, the focus has pivoted to support Greece’s green energy transition. The storage auctions themselves require further approval under EU State aid rules. The pipeline of prospective battery storage projects now approaches 27GW, with over 500 projects granted a storage license.

Is Greece preparing a new 3.5 GW energy storage program?

A decision published by Greece’s Ministry of the Environment and Energy in the State Gazette last Friday was a surprise for the domestic energy storage sector. The ministry ran a public consultation in late February, proposing a new 3.5 GW energy storage program.

Does Greece have a zero-subsidy battery system?

The much-awaited ministerial decree for zero-subsidy standalone battery systems has been published in Greece. So far, Greece has provided support to 900 MW of standalone storage projects under three previous auctions.

What is the future of battery storage in Greece?

Overall, following last months public consultation, the Greek ministry of the environment and energy presented a bolder and even more ambitious battery storage program, allowing for longer completion times but retaining the financial and competition guarantees in place.

Does Greece have a battery storage pipeline?

Greece has emerged as one of the countries with the largest pipeline of battery storage projects, but as yet there has been little activity on the ground. This is changing as the long-awaited storage subsidy auctions have started, with the first projects being awarded support for both investment and operating costs.

How long does it take to get a battery system in Greece?

Battery systems sought for the islands that link to Greece’s mainland electricity system (e.g. Crete) also have 150 days to apply for the new program. Projects larger than 10 MW need to apply for a grid connection agreement to the transmission network operator, while projects up to 10 MW need to apply to the distributor grid operator.