GameChange Energy Builds 397MW Solar Projects in Portugal

en.Wedoany.com Reported - GameChange Energy, in partnership with Portuguese engineering and construction company Zagope, is executing five solar projects in Portugal with a total installed capacity of 397 MW. These projects are located across highly complex terrains, involving rocky areas and steep slopes. The collaboration began with the Douro project in Tarouca, Viseu District, which has an installed capacity of 149 MW and faced multiple technical challenges during construction, including hard rock geology, slopes of up to 15%, a demanding installation schedule, and strict supervision and reporting requirements.

GameChange Energy stated that the adoption of the MaxSpan fixed-tilt racking system reduces capital expenditure (CAPEX), adapts the structure to terrain characteristics, while accelerating installation speed and simplifying construction operations. Thanks to the successful performance of the Douro project, the collaboration has been expanded to four additional projects: Acail (28 MW), Riodades (61 MW), Sendim (120 MW), and Felgueiras (39 MW). Guilherme Rodrigues, Head of Energy and Renewable Procurement at Zagope, stated that MaxSpan has demonstrated clear advantages in cost-effectiveness and execution across multiple solar projects, particularly suited to mountainous, rocky, and steep-slope terrains, optimizing CAPEX and reducing earthworks and mechanical installation time.

Beyond the metal structures, project execution also requires close coordination across engineering, civil works, manufacturing, logistics, and installation. This integration was particularly critical in the Douro project, where changes in any one work front could have a direct impact on others. Damian Río, Operations Director at GameChange Energy, stated that Douro is a clear example of bankable execution, achieving efficient, cost-predictable, and schedule-compliant installation by combining project-specific engineering with Zagope's comprehensive coordination and construction methods adapted to steep slopes and hard rock terrain.

Based on the experience gained from these five projects, GameChange Energy believes its capability to develop solutions for large-scale solar plants on complex terrains has been strengthened, while also highlighting the value of maintaining long-term relationships with clients. The project portfolio developed jointly with Zagope, totaling 397 MW of solar PV capacity, further reinforces GameChange Energy's presence in the Portuguese market and reflects its commitment to providing solutions tailored to the specific terrain conditions of each project site.