Harnessing the energy of Girabolhos hydroelectric power plant
Portugal
The Girabolhos hydropower plant is a landmark reversible hydroelectric project on the Mondego River in Portugal. This innovative development consists of two reservoirs: the Girabolhos dam, a 93.5-meter-high arch dam, and the Girabolhos afterbay, a 66.5-meter-high concrete-faced rockfill dam. The main reversible installation (pumped-storage turbine) located at the dam’s base provides a total installed capacity of 335 MW, while a conventional facility further utilizes the afterbay’s head with an additional 29.5 MW.
Reversible hydroelectric exploitation in Portugal
Thanks to its advanced reversible technology, the Girabolhos hydropower plant enables efficient energy storage during low-demand periods and electricity generation during peak consumption. This flexibility supports the integration of renewable sources into Portugal’s power grid, reinforces national energy security, and promotes environmental sustainability. The Girabolhos hydropower plant thus stands as a reference point for innovation, energy efficiency, and sustainable infrastructure in the region.
