Naturgy Unifies Spain’s Solar & Wind Operations in RCC
Naturgy has taken a significant step towards the modernization and optimization of its renewable energy operations in Spain by integrating the management of all its solar and wind energy assets into a cutting-edge facility. This strategic move is designed to ensure a more efficient and environmentally responsible operation of its renewable energy facilities. The newly established Renewables Control Centre (RCC) will also enhance the company’s ability to oversee its renewable energy production in other countries where it operates, further expanding its global reach in the clean energy sector.
Located in A Coruña, the RCC is responsible for supervising a vast portfolio of renewable energy assets, including 93 wind farms, 24 photovoltaic plants, and five cogeneration plants across Spain. Additionally, the centre monitors two wind farms located in Mexico. In total, the facility currently manages an installed capacity of over 3.48 gigawatts (GW), making it a crucial hub for the company’s renewable energy operations.
By centralizing operations, Naturgy aims to increase the flexibility of its renewable energy production, allowing for real-time optimization based on the availability of each facility. The technological advancements embedded within the RCC position it at the forefront of information systems and cybersecurity, enabling it to integrate multiple underlying systems in a standardized and uniform manner. This capability ensures a safe, efficient, and environmentally conscious operation of both existing facilities and future renewable energy projects.
In addition to its commitment to wind and solar energy, Naturgy maintains its hydropower generation operations through its Integrated Control Centre (ICC), located in Ourense. This key facility oversees the operation of 47 hydroelectric plants and 23 large dams in Spain. The ICC plays a fundamental role in ensuring the stability and reliability of Naturgy’s hydropower generation, contributing to the country’s overall energy security.
The ICC is equipped with next-generation control systems and analytical tools that enable a flexible and highly efficient response to the evolving demands of the national electricity grid. Operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the centre upholds the highest safety standards concerning personnel, infrastructure, and environmental impact. Its inauguration in 2017 marked a milestone in the integration of advanced technology and research and development in innovation (R&D&I), consolidating all aspects related to the safe and reliable operation of hydroelectric facilities into a single decision-making environment.
Commitment to the Energy Transition
Naturgy has firmly established itself as one of the leading investors in clean energy technologies in Spain. In the first half of 2024 alone, the company allocated 937 million euros primarily toward the development of renewable energy projects and improvements to its energy network. These investments highlight Naturgy’s dedication to advancing a more sustainable energy mix while also maintaining a strong focus on value creation, business growth, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) objectives.
As of the third quarter of 2024, Naturgy’s total generation capacity worldwide had reached 6.9 GW, with Spain accounting for 5.3 GW of this total. Wind power plays a dominant role in the company’s renewable energy portfolio, representing half of its installed renewable capacity. Additionally, Naturgy has made significant progress in solar energy, with 1.3 GW of installed photovoltaic capacity distributed across Spain, Brazil, Chile, and the United States.
In the hydropower sector, Naturgy continues to be a major player, boasting an installed capacity of 2.2 GW. Of this, 2.1 GW is located in Spain, with the remaining 0.1 GW spread across Costa Rica and Panama. Hydropower remains a key pillar of the company’s renewable energy strategy, complementing its wind and solar assets to provide a diversified and stable energy mix.
Advancing Sustainability and Innovation
Naturgy’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond energy production. The company is actively engaged in research and development initiatives aimed at enhancing the efficiency and environmental performance of its renewable energy operations. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and predictive maintenance, Naturgy is improving the reliability and longevity of its renewable energy infrastructure.
Furthermore, the company is exploring the integration of energy storage solutions to address the intermittency challenges associated with wind and solar power. Large-scale battery storage systems and hybrid renewable energy projects are key areas of focus, as they can enhance grid stability and enable a smoother transition toward a fully renewable energy system.
Naturgy also places a strong emphasis on reducing its carbon footprint and supporting Spain’s broader decarbonization goals. Through its ongoing investments in clean energy and infrastructure upgrades, the company aims to play a leading role in achieving the European Union’s climate targets, which include a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and an increased share of renewables in the energy mix by 2030.
Future Outlook
Naturgy plans to further expand its renewable energy capacity both in Spain and internationally. The company has several large-scale wind and solar projects in the pipeline, which will contribute to increasing its total renewable energy capacity in the coming years. Additionally, Naturgy is actively seeking opportunities for partnerships and acquisitions that align with its vision of accelerating the global energy transition.
With its state-of-the-art Renewables Control Centre, strong investment in clean energy technologies, and unwavering commitment to sustainability, Naturgy is well-positioned to drive the future of renewable energy. By continuously enhancing the efficiency and reliability of its operations, the company is not only reinforcing its leadership in the renewable energy sector but also making a meaningful contribution to a greener and more sustainable future for all.
As global energy demands continue to evolve, Naturgy remains committed to innovation, environmental responsibility, and the advancement of clean energy solutions that benefit both society and the planet. Its proactive approach to integrating renewable energy management, investing in cutting-edge technologies, and supporting the energy transition ensures that the company will remain a key player in shaping the future of sustainable energy for years to come.
