24 MW Energy Storage in Seville: Authorization for Solar Hybridization

Key data

Planta Solar OPDE Andalucía 1, SL has authorization to build the energy storage module Hibridación Zafra, of 24.04 MW, which will integrate with the photovoltaic plant HSF Zafra, of 45.836 MW, already in operation in Alcalá de Guadaíra (Seville). The resolution, issued on January 14, 2026 by the General Directorate of Energy Policy and Mines, grants both prior administrative authorization and administrative construction authorization, including the necessary evacuation infrastructure.

This type of solar-storage hybridization projects are a key lever in Spain's energy transition strategy and in meeting renewable penetration targets.

What does this regulation establish?

The resolution grants Planta Solar OPDE Andalucía 1, SL two simultaneous authorizations for the Hibridación Zafra project:

• Prior administrative authorization: confirms the viability of the project from the perspective of energy policy and allows progress in the process.
• Administrative construction authorization: enables the effective start of works on the storage module and its evacuation infrastructure.

The project consists of integrating a 24.04 MW battery storage system with the HSF Zafra photovoltaic plant, of 45.836 MW, already operational. Hybridization allows solar energy generated but not immediately injected into the grid to be stored and released at times of higher demand or lower congestion, thus reducing energy spillage and improving asset profitability.

The authorization also includes the evacuation infrastructure necessary to connect the storage system with the electrical grid.

Economic and operational impact

Hybridizing an existing solar plant with battery storage has direct consequences on the operation and financial results of the asset:

• Reduction of energy spillage: solar energy that previously could not be injected into the grid due to capacity limitations or negative prices can be stored and managed optimally.
• Revenue optimization: by being able to shift injection to time slots with higher prices, the asset improves its average revenue per MWh generated.
• Greater utilization of existing infrastructure: the HSF Zafra plant of 45.836 MW already has grid connection infrastructure; the 24.04 MW storage module integrates on that basis, reducing new connection costs.
• Compliance with regulatory objectives: hybridization projects contribute to renewable penetration and electrical system flexibility targets, which can facilitate access to future compensation mechanisms or auctions.

From an operational perspective, the promoting company must now execute the works in accordance with the construction authorization obtained and, once completed, request the operating authorization before commercial commissioning of the module.

Who does it affect?

• Planta Solar OPDE Andalucía 1, SL: direct project promoter, with obligations and deadlines derived from the authorization obtained.
• Photovoltaic plant operators in Andalusia studying similar hybridization projects with storage: this project sets a precedent for processing in the region.
• Energy storage sector companies (battery manufacturers, BESS system integrators) with activity in the Andalusian and Spanish market.
• Investors and energy infrastructure funds with positions in photovoltaic assets evaluating hybridization as a value lever.
• Energy advisors and consultants accompanying promoters in hybridization authorization processes.

Practical example

A promoter operating a photovoltaic plant of similar size to HSF Zafra (45.836 MW) and detecting that at certain times of day it spills energy at zero or negative prices, can request hybridization with a storage module. In the case of Hibridación Zafra, the authorized module has 24.04 MW, which represents approximately 52% of the solar plant's power.

The process followed by OPDE Andalucía 1, SL illustrates the mandatory sequence: first obtain prior administrative and construction authorization (already granted by resolution of January 14, 2026), execute the works including evacuation infrastructure, and finally request operating authorization for commissioning. Without completing these steps, the storage module cannot operate legally.

What should companies do now?

1. If you are OPDE Andalucía 1, SL: initiate the process of contracting and executing works on the Hibridación Zafra module in accordance with the construction authorization obtained, respecting the technical conditions and deadlines established in the resolution.
2. If you operate a photovoltaic plant in Andalusia or Spain and are studying hybridization with storage: analyze this case as a reference for processing before the General Directorate of Energy Policy and Mines, identifying prior authorization and construction requirements.
3. If you are an investor or fund with photovoltaic assets: evaluate the hybridization potential of your existing plants as a lever for income optimization and spillage reduction, considering technical and regulatory feasibility.
4. If you are a BESS system manufacturer or integrator: identify commercial opportunities in similar hybridization projects in processing or planning in Andalusia and the rest of Spain.
5. Once works are executed: process the operating authorization before the competent authority before commercial commissioning of the storage module. This step is mandatory and cannot be omitted.