Greek Island Ai Stratis Goes Green Through Renewable Energy Pilot Project

Ai Stratis, Greece. Photo source: Visit Greece

The Hellenic Electricity Distribution Network Operator (HEDNO) has launched another significant green transition project aimed at making the Greek island of Ai Stratis energy self-sufficient through the exclusive use of renewable energy sources.

The pilot project, titled “Ai Stratis Green Island”, is designed to meet all electricity and heating needs of the island’s residents by harnessing wind and solar power.

The basic infrastructure was installed by the Center for Renewable Energy Sources and Saving (CRES), and HEDNO subsequently connected the equipment to the local grid, making the project operational.

On October 5, the system was tested, making Ai Stratis the first autonomous green Greek island for 2.5 hours in terms of energy.

The energy system comprises one wind turbine, a photovoltaic station with panels, and an additional central teleheating system.

This project will serve as a pilot for other islands not connected to Greece’s main grid. Similar initiatives toward achieving a climate-neutral footprint have already been implemented on the islands of Tilos and Ikaria.

On Tilos, which is linked to the Kos and Kalymnos grid, the local hybrid station, including a small diesel generator, covers the island’s energy needs in emergency situations.

On Ikaria, a hybrid energy production station, operational since 2019, combines wind and hydraulic power to meet a significant portion of the island’s energy requirements.

HEDNO S.A. has announced that a similar project to that on Ai Stratis is in progress on the island of Astypalea, which features an integrated plan to allow only electric cars on its roads, thereby enhancing its green transition efforts.