PPC Invests €5.75 Billion in the Green Transformation of Western Macedonia
Greece Prepares for the Largest Energy Transition in Its History
Public Power Corporation (PPC), Greece’s largest electricity provider, has announced a €5.75 billion investment aimed at transforming Western Macedonia — a region heavily reliant on lignite coal — into a regional hub for green energy and modern technologies.
This ambitious strategy, set to unfold over the next 3–5 years, has the potential to not only reshape Greece’s energy landscape but also position the region as a key reference point for Southeast Europe.
Data Center Investment of €2.3 Billion
One of the most remarkable aspects of PPC’s plan is the construction of a 300 MW data center at the Agios Dimitrios power plant. This will be one of the largest facilities of its kind in Europe, with the potential for expansion up to 1,000 MW depending on market demand. The center is scheduled to open in 2027 and could play a significant role in the region’s digital transformation.
Solar Power and Energy Storage in Former Mining Areas
The closure of lignite mines in Western Macedonia does not mark the end for these areas — on the contrary. PPC will invest €1.2 billion to build photovoltaic farms with a combined capacity of 2,130 MW. This is equivalent to powering 715,000 homes and businesses. The installations will be located on former mining sites, which not only maximizes the use of existing infrastructure but also supports land reclamation efforts.
Green transformation cannot be achieved without energy storage infrastructure. PPC plans to invest €940 million in projects with a total capacity of 860 MW. These will include two pumped-storage plants (320 MW and 240 MW) and a 300 MW battery system. These are fundamental steps to increase the flexibility and reliability of Greece’s future energy mix.
New Life for Ptolemaida 5 and Green Hydrogen
As part of the project, not all existing facilities will be closed. The Ptolemaida 5 power plant, currently coal-fired, will be converted into a gas-fired unit. Initially, it will have a capacity of 350 MW, with the potential to expand to 500 MW. At the same time, PPC plans to participate in the construction of Greece’s first industrial green hydrogen plant in Amyntaio, through a joint venture with Hellenic Hydrogen.
The company also plans to establish a waste-to-energy plant (38 MW) that will generate electricity and district heating. Additionally, around €400 million will be allocated for soil reclamation, the dismantling of outdated coal installations, and the revitalization of industrial areas.
Jobs and Economic Boost
All of the announced projects will have not only environmental and technological significance but also social implications. PPC estimates that up to 20,000 jobs will be created during the construction phase, with another 2,000 permanent positions once the investments are completed. This presents a major opportunity for local communities that have previously been impacted by the transition away from coal.
The transformation of Western Macedonia is not only a Greek project — it serves as a model example of a just energy transition for all of Europe. The integration of renewable sources, energy storage, hydrogen, and modern technologies, alongside the redevelopment of post-industrial lands, is a path that could inspire other regions.
Source: reuters.com