CHANGE Institute, in partnership with CCDRA and the Renewable Energy Chair of the University of Évora, presents the policy brief "Solar Energy in Portugal: Towards a Balanced and Sustainable Transition", a document that brings together recommendations for an environmentally balanced, socially fair and economically efficient expansion of photovoltaic energy.
In view of the national commitment to achieve climate neutrality by 2045, this work proposes seven strategic recommendations to guide policies and practices for the implementation of solar photovoltaic plants:
- Harnessing solar potential in buildings, industrial zones and artificial areas;
- Define Renewable Energy Acceleration Areas based on environmental and social criteria;
- Efficiently plan electricity transmission and distribution networks;
- Use photovoltaic potential to regenerate degraded soils and promote agrivoltaics;
- Protect biodiversity and promote ecological restoration;
- Actively involve local communities and relevant actors in all phases of projects;
- Rigorously monitor environmental, social and economic impacts.
The document is the result of the 2024 Photovoltaic Solar Forum, which brought together around 40 representatives of public entities, companies, universities, NGOs and local communities to discuss the challenges and opportunities of the energy transition in Portugal.
To find out more download the policy brief