Portugal has announced an upward revision of its target for the share of renewable energies in final energy consumption, from 47% to 51% by 2030. This initiative is part of the national strategy to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045. According to Maria da Graça Carvalho, Minister for the Environment and Energy, this revision represents a “substantial evolution” and will play a crucial role in the decarbonization trajectory of all sectors.
In 2022, the share of renewable energies in Portugal’s final energy consumption was 34.7%, putting the country in sixth place among the 27 member states of the European Union. This statistic, derived from official data, underlines the growing importance of renewable energies in the national energy mix.
Objectives and Key Initiatives
The revised draft maintains Portugal’s commitment to holding its first offshore wind auction, targeting 2 gigawatts (GW) of capacity. However, the country will reduce its target for green hydrogen production, now aiming for 5.5 GW of new electrolyser capacity by 2030. This decision reflects a strategic adjustment to balance investments in renewable energy.
Simplifying the licensing process for investments in renewable energies is also a priority. Currently, developers have to interact with up to 14 official entities before obtaining final approval, causing delays in project implementation. The new process will offer a single point of contact, speeding up authorization times and promoting faster adoption of renewable technologies.
Progress and challenges
Portugal aims to generate 85% of its annual electricity from renewable sources by 2030, up from 61% in 2023. This figure represents one of the highest ratios in Europe, and testifies to the country’s commitment to the energy transition. Nevertheless, there are still many challenges ahead, particularly in terms of infrastructure and regulation.
Investment in renewable energies requires robust infrastructure and effective coordination between the various players in the sector. The Portuguese government is actively working to overcome these obstacles by putting in place appropriate regulatory frameworks and encouraging public and private partnerships.
Future prospects
Increasing the share of renewable energies in Portugal’s final energy consumption represents a major step towards carbon neutrality. By promoting investment in offshore wind power and green hydrogen, the country is positioning itself as a European leader in the energy transition.
In the long term, these efforts will contribute not only to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, but also to creating jobs and strengthening energy security. Portugal is demonstrating that it is possible to reconcile economic growth with sustainable development.
