The Despacho n.º 1859/2025, issued by the Direção-Geral de Energia e Geologia (DGEG), regulates administrative procedures for the licensing of energy storage facilities. This regulation falls under Decree-Law No. 15/2022, which governs the organization of the National Electric System (SEN).

With the growing penetration of renewable energy in Portugal, particularly solar and wind, energy storage is becoming essential to ensure grid stability, optimize the use of clean energy, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. “Storage is fundamental for integrating a greater share of renewable energy into the energy mix and enhancing the efficiency of modern power systems,” states the official document.

Key Conditions for Obtaining Licenses

The new regulation establishes that the DGEG is the entity responsible for granting licensing titles for energy storage facilities. It defines specific procedures applicable to the following cases:

• Technology modification in yet-to-be-built photovoltaic power plants with an existing injection capacity reservation title (TRC).
• Standalone or co-located storage facilities connected to renewable energy plants with pre-assigned injection capacity.
• Self-consumption production units (UPAC) with an installed capacity exceeding 1 MW and an injection capacity into the RESP greater than 1 MVA.

Technical Requirements for Storage Facilities

The regulation sets common technical requirements for storage facilities, regardless of whether they operate in generation mode, charging mode, or auxiliary consumption. Among these, compliance with grid connection standards (Regulation (EU) 2016/631 and Ordinance No. 73/2020) is mandatory, along with participation in balancing mechanisms.

Furthermore, grid operators may request the use of storage facilities to optimize SEN stability. “Storage facility owners must allow their systems to operate at full technical capacity when required by the grid operator,” states the decree.

Another crucial aspect is that facilities must have real-time communication systems to enable the monitoring and control of electrical variables by the SEN operator. Additionally, storage installations must participate in adjustment markets, replacement reserves, and other operational security mechanisms.

Digital Processing and Streamlined Procedures

The new regulatory framework prioritizes digitalizing the licensing process, requiring that applications be submitted through the DGEG’s electronic platform. If the platform is temporarily unavailable, applications may be sent via email with a digital signature.

The technology modification procedure for photovoltaic installations requires the submission of:

• Identification of the existing capacity reservation title (TRC).
• Justification for the inability to build the originally planned facility.
• Technical parameters of the new storage installation.

The DGEG will review the application and forward it to the Grid Operator (OR) for evaluation within 30 days. The SEN operator will then have an additional 15 days to provide an opinion. If approved, the TRC will be updated accordingly.

For co-located or standalone storage installations, applicants must submit documents proving their assigned injection capacity and agreements with the associated power plant owners. Once approved, the production license will be issued under Decree-Law No. 15/2022.

Impact on Energy Storage Development in Portugal

The new procedures aim to accelerate and simplify the deployment of energy storage systems in the country. Efficient integration of these technologies will enable better utilization of renewable energy, prevent grid congestion, and ensure supply security.

Portugal is advancing its sustainable energy model with clearer and faster rules for storage, fostering investment in key infrastructure for the energy transition.