The energy ministry aims to secure the European Commission’s approval of a new RES auction framework it is preparing by revising an existing plan that would result in new RES projects becoming eligible for operating support if subject to greater grid-injection restrictions and/or possessing behind-the-meter batteries.

Authorities see the next wave of RES auctions as a means of creating more electrical space for RES investments by requiring projects with connection terms to incorporate storage units.

According to early estimates, some 2 GW in RES facilities with batteries behind the meter are expected to qualify for operational support through a new wave of RES auctions.

A project management team assembled by the energy ministry will propose an optimal size for this portfolio of RES units with storage systems to be deemed eligible for state support, based on the maximization of benefits to the system, taking into account the economic viability of investments involved.

The energy ministry’s intention is to ensure clarity for investors on RES units and batteries, as was stressed by deputy energy minister Alexandra Sdoukou at the recent Power & Gas Forum in Athens.