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The IRENE pumped-storage, or reversible, hydroelectric power station is a strategic energy storage project currently being developed and which has been declared as a Project of Common Interest (PCI) by the European Union. Its aim is to contribute to the long-term storage and manageability of the electricity system, reinforcing the stability of the Spanish and European electricity grid and facilitating the integration of renewable energies and advanced network services.

IRENE will represent long-term storage infrastructure able to provide renewables flexibility, stability and capacity, reinforcing Europe’s energy security. The project will also foster the development of innovative and sustainable solutions in environmental, economic and social management, and climate protection, in the Elorz Valley (Noáin, Navarre, Spain).

In line with the philosophy and vision of ACCIONA Energía in the area of sustainability, the IRENE PSH power station has been planned using maximum compatibility and environmental sensitivity criteria, prioritizing conservation of the surroundings and the minimization of impact throughout its development cycle.

GENERAL INFORMATION

  • Planned commissioning date: December 2035.
  • Head between lakes: 642 m.
  • Lower lake storage capacity: 3.75 hm3.
  • Upper lake storage capacity: 3.80 hm3.
  • Stored electricity: 5.6 GWh.
  • Maximum turbine capacity: 804 MW.
  • Turbine cycle length: 7 hours/day.
  • Technology: 3 ternary turbine sets (maximum flexibility and stability).
  • Underground electric substation.
  • Grid feed: 400 kV Muruarte substation (REE 2021-2026 plan).

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Reinforcement of the operation of the Spanish and European electricity system.
  • Strategic connection, with cross-border links between Spain and France.
  • Maximization of integration of renewable energies and waste reduction.
  • Provision of advanced services: aFRR, mFRR, inertia, synchronism, voltage control, black start.
  • Contribution of reliable capacity and flexibility in critical system moments.

 

PROGRESS

  • Project lies outside Natura 2000, SCIs, SPAs and unique landscapes.
  • Largely underground electricity feed.
  • Concession of water requested from the Ebro Hydrographical Confederation.
  • Compatibility with the River Basin Management Plan obtained.
  • Project and Environmental Impact Study presented in October 2024.
  • First geo-technical phase completed with favorable results.
  • Awaiting access and connection to the Muruarte electric substation.

Between upper and lower lakes: 642 m

A pumped-storage hydroelectric power station is an energy storage facility that has two masses of water, each at a different level. During the hours of least electricity consumption, water is pumped from the lower to the upper lake, where it remains stored and available for later descent into the turbines in periods of greater electricity demand.

 

The IRENE PSH project will have an important program of socioeconomic, environmental and educational development in the municipalities of the area, based on 4 pillars:

  1. Climate commitment through plantations, crops and livestock management.
  2. Creation and maintenance of the agricultural ecosystem.
  3. Improvements for neighboring localities.
  4. Environmental education, diffusion, attraction of sustainable tourism and transformative experiences.
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