The Regional Director for Energy stated today that the incentive granted by the Regional Government under Proenergia - incentive system for the production and storage of energy from renewable sources "registered an increase of 46% in the first half of 2019, compared with same period in 2018."
"In the first six months of this year, the Azoreans presented more than 300 applications for Proenergia, which corresponds to about 350 devices and an overall investment of more than 800 thousand Euros," added Andreia Carreiro.
"These values are in line with the trend we have been observing in recent years and it will continue to grow in view of the recent changes to this incentive system, which have made it even more appealing," stated the government official.
"We have reduced by half the minimum investment required in the projects submitted by promoters. We have increased the amount of incentives granted by the Government and extended the coverage of equipment support by this incentive system, which now includes included storage solutions such as batteries," stressed Andreia Carreiro.
The Regional Director explained that the dynamics generated by the amendment to Proenergia is an "important impetus for the energy transition of the Azores as far as it meets the regional goals set for energy. In fact, it aims to stimulate an evolution that positions the Azoreans as users of clean energy, thereby enabling them to play an increasingly active role in the efficiency of the energy system, not only for their ability of consuming but also for the ability of producing and storing energy."
Andreia Carreiro spoke after a visit to Quinta da Abelheira, a Rural Tourism unit located on the island of São Miguel. It has been investing in energy production systems from renewable sources for self-consumption, which have been encouraged by Proenergia.
On the occasion, the Regional Director also highlighted the advantages for companies when using innovative energy production and storage systems production, along with the best solutions that promote energy efficiency in their infrastructures. Hence, they will be able "to harness economic benefits arising from savings on energy bills, while strengthening their position as an entity that manages its activity in harmony with the best environmental practices. This premise has become an important factor of differentiation and competitiveness."