Portugal at the Forefront of Sustainability in 2025

Portugal has demonstrated that ambition and climate action can go hand in hand. In recent years, we have made significant progress in decarbonisation and renewable energy deployment. By 2025, we aim to achieve 6 GW of installed solar capacity—a crucial milestone toward reaching 80% renewable electricity by 2030.

The year 2025 is set to be a pivotal moment in setting Portugal’s role as a global leader in the energy transition and the fight against climate change. As a key enabler in the energy sector, ADENE- National Energy Agency is deeply committed to accelerating this transformation, ensuring that Portugal becomes a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility on the global stage.

The energy transition is more than just an obligation driven by climate change; it represents a unique opportunity for Portugal to spearhead sustainable development and innovation.

Portugal has demonstrated that ambition and climate action can go hand in hand. In recent years, we have made significant progress in decarbonisation and renewable energy deployment. By 2025, we aim to achieve 6 GW of installed solar capacity—a crucial milestone toward reaching 80% renewable electricity by 2030.

This ambition reflects a profound transformation in progress, where conscious choices today shape a sustainable future for generations to come.

Investments in technologies such as smart grids and energy storage systems will enhance resilience to external shocks and increase efficiency. Renewable Energy Communities and self-consumption initiatives are empowering consumers to become producers, democratising access to energy and reducing inequalities. These are tangible benefits for citizens and businesses alike.?

However, the future demands a true behavioural shift and the adoption of sustainable practices by all—governments, businesses, and individuals. In 2025, ADENE will continue to invest in awareness and education programmes, fostering a collective commitment to resource efficiency.

Navigating Global Challenges

In 2025, the global energy landscape will continue to be shaped by significant geopolitical shifts. The aftermath of recent wars, such as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and the rise of new political leaders following pivotal elections worldwide, are redefining international priorities and alliances. These changes bring both opportunities and challenges, as the emerging paradigms may disrupt the trajectory toward a sustainable energy transition.

While some regions may accelerate their commitment to renewables and climate action, others may face setbacks due to political or economic instability. The global demand for clean energy solutions is rising, but so are the complexities of achieving equitable progress amidst shifting priorities.

At COP29 in Azerbaijan, the urgency of climate action was reaffirmed, yet the outcomes were modest, emphasising the need for enhanced global cooperation and action. With COP30 set to take place in Brazil, Portugal and ADENE will actively advocate for stronger commitments to financing climate action and fostering global collaboration to address these evolving challenges.

Portugal’s Priorities in 2025

Modernising electricity infrastructure and upskilling the energy workforce are among Portugal’s top priorities. To integrate growing renewable capacities and ensure a just transition, coordinated efforts among public entities, private sectors, and academia are essential.

For ADENE, 2025 will be a year of strategic action with both national and international impact. We aim to formalise collaboration with PlanAPP - Competence Center for Public Administration Planning, Policies and Foresight, enhancing public policy design and monitoring to drive the energy transition. At the European level, our participation in the European Energy Efficiency Financing Coalition will strengthen Portugal’s position as a leader in implementing ambitious energy efficiency policies and sustainability.

Strengthening partnerships with countries like Japan and Spain will also be a key focus. In Spain, we plan to lay the groundwork for the creation of the Iberian Energy Observatory, in collaboration with IDAE - Instituto para la Diversificación y Ahorro de la Energia. Another major initiative will be the Energy Route in the Portuguese-speaking African Countries (PALOPs), promoting sustainable practices in these regions.

In the construction sector, ADENE will continue its efforts to establish a Green Building Council in Portugal, aligning with EU taxonomy guidelines to transition the sector toward greener and more efficient models. We will also ensure the implementation of key european energy directives, such as EPBD (Buildings), EED (Energy Efficiency) and REDIII (Renewables), into national legislation.

In industry, we plan to release a handbook on the potential of the Blue Economy, outlining strategies for sustainable reindustrialisation in Portugal. Additionally, we will continue supporting the development and operation of the Voluntary Carbon Market, managing the platform for project registration and carbon credits.

Building Capacity for a Sustainable Future

ADENE will continue to lead the implementation of the National Long-Term Strategy to Combat Energy Poverty, focusing on initiatives like the National Energy Poverty Observatory and pilot projects such as Energy Spaces. We also aim to expand efforts in promoting energy communities and individual and collective self-consumption, as well energy efficiency in transportation and sustainable mobility.

Training and capacity building will remain central to our mission in 2025. We will diversify our training programmes and keep being an active member of the management board of the Energy Transition Centre, providing much-needed requalification and skills development for professionals. Our technical innovation projects, developed in collaboration with member states, energy agencies, and market actors, will further strengthen our integrated approach to the challenges and opportunities of the energy transition.

At the local level, ADENE will continue coordinating at national level the Covenant of Mayors, supporting climate action at local level, and ensuring the successful implementation of the revised ECO.AP 2030 programme for resource efficiency in public administration.

Celebrating 25 Years of ADENE

In 2025, we celebrate ADENE’s 25th anniversary—a moment to reflect on our journey and envision the challenges ahead. To mark this milestone, we will host a high-level international conference, publish a commemorative book, and launch a special podcast series. This celebration is not just a recognition of ADENE’s work but an opportunity to inspire the next generation of leaders, technicians, and citizens to actively contribute to Portugal’s energy and climate transformation.

2025 - A Decisive Year

2025 will be a decisive year, with ADENE committed to consolidating Portugal’s leadership in the energy transition and inspiring other nations to follow suit. Through innovation, collaboration, and determination, we will ensure that the energy transition becomes a driver of economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection.

Originally published in Público online on December 18, 2024