Government drafts plan to win local backing for renewable energy projects

Portugal's government is preparing a plan to make renewable energy projects more acceptable to the communities that host them, Environment and Energy Minister Maria da Graça Carvalho said during the 2027 state budget debate. The approach would involve residents from the start through information, dialogue and lasting benefits, such as energy communities beside solar plants offering cheaper electricity. The plan stems from the EU's third renewable energy directive and could take the form of a recommendation or a decree, also covering water, waste and mining. She cited Aljustrel and Castro Verde as local successes and Covas do Barroso as a case to avoid.