A major renewable energy project is advancing in western Greece, where authorities are preparing to develop the country’s largest publicly owned cooperative solar power plant in the region of Aetolia-Acarnania.
The planned 105 MW solar facility is expected to become one of the largest virtual net-metering schemes in Europe, with officials estimating that approximately 147,000 farmers will benefit from significantly lower electricity costs once the project becomes operational.
In addition to its agricultural dimension, the project includes a strong social component. Around 17,000 vulnerable households are expected to receive free electricity through the scheme, reinforcing its dual role as both an energy transition initiative and a social support mechanism.
The project was made possible through special legislation introduced by the Greek Ministry of Environment and Energy and subsequently approved by parliament. Greek Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou described the investment as an important milestone for the country’s energy transition and for strengthening the strategic role of western Greece within the national energy system.
Authorities estimate that participating consumers could reduce their electricity bills by up to 62% once the project is fully implemented.
Part of the financing will be provided through the Western Greece Regional Operational Program, which has already allocated €25 million for the initiative. The solar plant will be constructed on state-owned land in Mesolongi, made available through the Ministry of Agricultural Development.
The facility will cover approximately 130 hectares. While only part of the funding structure has been officially confirmed, industry estimates suggest the total project value could range between €70 million and €120 million, depending on current European utility-scale solar construction costs.
Given the scale of the development and required regulatory steps, experts expect the licensing, tendering, and construction phases to take between two and four years.
