These smaller solar plants should be built in spaces that “do not disrupt nature or the landscape,” minister says
A cutting-edge photovoltaic plant was inaugurated in the tourist resort of Vilamoura on Friday (January 17) by Portugal’s Minister of Environment.
Located at the Praia da Marina (Marina Beach) Pumping Station, the innovative system features 358-double sided solar panels which allows it to capture solar radiation from above and heat from below. With an annual capacity of 200 kW, the plant will power the wastewater pumping station, significantly reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources. For context, the new plant produces double the energy compared to the existing panels at the headquarters of municipal company Inframoura.
Speaking at the inauguration, Maria da Graça Carvalho called for more small-scale solar plants to be built across Portugal in spaces that “do not disrupt nature or the landscape.”
“The ongoing energy transition must be accessible to everyone, and the population should feel like part of it,” the minister stated.
The solar plant was installed in a car park and generates energy which is used to power the wastewater pumping station at Marina Beach, thereby reducing dependence on non-renewable energy sources.
The project, costing €240,000, also aligns with Loulé’s Municipal Strategy to Adapt to Climate Change.
Local mayor Vítor Aleixo praised the government’s support for energy transition, noting that the municipality is “on the path to a sustainable future in combating climate change.”
Meanwhile, the minister also announced plans to simplify processes related to self-consumption. “It is essential that everyone feels they are contributing,” she said, adding that consumers should have the flexibility to remain connected to the electricity grid or become entirely energy-independent through their own production.
The minister’s visit also featured a presentation by municipal officials on Loulé’s climate action policies, highlighting initiatives like the recently established Foz do Almargem and Trafal Local Nature Reserve, as well as visits to environmentally friendly projects, including Arcaya, a new residential development noted for its sustainability-focused design.
