Negative environmental decision by APA, supported by ICNF, blocks investment near Alqueva as developers challenge licensing consistency
A proposed solar energy and tourism development in the Alqueva region, in Portugal’s Alentejo, has been rejected following a negative Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) issued by the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA).
The decision is based on a technical opinion from the Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests (ICNF), which identified potential risks to a nearby bat colony. According to the assessment, the colony is located approximately 1.5 kilometres from the planned project site.
A key concern highlighted in the evaluation is the reduction of an olive grove, considered an important feeding area for the bat population. Authorities warn that this could disrupt local ecological balance and negatively affect protected species.
The project is being developed by a consortium that includes Lightsource bp, a company owned by the British energy group BP. Following the unfavourable decision, the developers have submitted an administrative complaint, questioning the conclusions of the environmental assessment.
The companies involved argue that there are inconsistencies in the environmental licensing process, particularly in a context where renewable energy projects are being widely promoted at both national and European levels.
The APA’s decision highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing the expansion of clean energy infrastructure with the need to safeguard biodiversity, especially in environmentally sensitive areas such as the Alqueva region.
