At WElink Energy, WE are excited to announce the significant expansion of our flagship Solara4 project, transforming it into Portugal’s largest hybrid energy farm. This ambitious development represents a major milestone in our journey to accelerate Europe’s clean energy transition and demonstrates our unwavering commitment to sustainable power generation at scale.
From solar leader to hybrid powerhouse
What began as Europe’s largest unsubsidized solar project has evolved into something even more remarkable. Initially launched with 221MW of solar PV capacity, Solara4 has proven the viability of industrial-scale clean energy without government subsidies. Today, WE are proud to announce that Solara4 is growing substantially with:
- – 219MW of solar currently operational at the site
- – Additional 50MW of solar being added
- – 264MW of wind power with 40 turbines
- – 100MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)
- – Total of over 600MW of installed capacity once complete
- – Expected to generate approximately 1.1TWh annually
This expansion transforms Solara4 from a solar showcase into a comprehensive hybrid energy solution that maximizes the complementary nature of solar and wind resources while ensuring reliable power delivery through advanced storage technology.
Why hybrid is the future
The strategic evolution of Solara4 reflects WElink’s forward-thinking approach to renewable energy development. By combining solar, wind, and battery storage at a single location, WE are creating a more efficient and resilient energy system. Solar generation peaks during daylight hours, while wind resources are often strongest during evening and overnight periods. The addition of battery storage further smooths generation profiles and enables us to deliver power when it’s most needed.
Community and environmental impact
The Solara4 expansion isn’t just about increasing megawatts—it’s about maximizing our positive impact. Located in Vaqueiros, Southern Portugal, the project harnesses one of Europe’s highest solar irradiation levels, making it an ideal location for renewable development.
The project will:
- – Generate enough electricity to power over 200,000 homes
- – Create hundreds of jobs during construction and operation phases
- – Significantly reduce carbon emissions compared to fossil fuel alternatives
- – Demonstrate how large-scale renewables can coexist with local agricultural activities
Technical innovation drives progress
What makes the Solara4 expansion possible is WElink’s commitment to technological innovation and optimization across the value chain. Working closely with our partners, WE have implemented cutting-edge solutions that maximize energy capture while minimizing environmental footprint.
The integration of a 100MW Battery Energy Storage System represents a particularly significant advancement, enabling the project to provide grid services and deliver power during peak demand periods. This addition transforms Solara4 from an intermittent generator into a reliable power provider capable of supporting grid stability.
Looking forward
As WE complete the Solara4 expansion, WElink Energy remains focused on our broader mission of delivering clean, accessible energy worldwide. This flagship project represents just one component of our 4GW portfolio across Europe and Africa, with additional opportunities in Iberia and beyond currently under development.
The success of Solara4 demonstrates that the clean energy transition is not just environmentally necessary but economically viable. As costs continue to decline and technologies improve, WE expect to see more hybrid projects emerge across Europe, accelerating the continent’s journey toward a sustainable energy future.
At WElink Energy, WE aren’t just building power plants—WE’re building a better energy system for tomorrow.
