Photovoltaic panels installed at Caldeira Velha Environmental Interpretation Centre contribute to sustainable development, says Marta Guerreiro
The Regional Secretary for Energy, Environment and Tourism stressed today that the installation of 16 photovoltaic panels at Caldeira Velha Environmental Interpretation Centre on São Miguel is another example of the Azorean Government's commitment to the implementation of measures towards the archipelago's sustainable development.
Marta Guerreiro spoke after the activation of the new photovoltaic solar energy generation system at that centre. On the occasion, she mentioned that the installation of the panels "is part of a context," where changes were made in infrastructures and regulations "with the aim of providing more comfort to those who visit this natural monument. Our concerns "are not limited to these aspects," as "they also address an environmental component."
"In this regard, we have already replaced all led light bulbs inside the Caldeira Velha building and, today, these solar panels enter into operation, replacing the existing diesel-powered generator," stressed the Secretary for the Environment.
Sixteen photovoltaic solar panels were installed at the centre, each with a rated power of 280W. Overall, they have a capacity of 4.5Kw and are connected to a battery bank.
"This is another step, which we want to be as broad as possible, in order to reduce CO2 emissions and, above all, raise awareness for the importance of these measures," said the Regional Secretary.
Marta Guerreiro added that this measure will also be implemented in Gruta das Torres cave on Pico Island. Meanwhile, the Government is analysing "all situations that need this type of intervention, always bearing in mind two perspectives: reduce emissions and pass on this message about environmental concerns, which is our duty."
"Our goal is to carry out this replacement whenever we have the necessary conditions and where we are consuming energy produced from polluting sources," assured the government official.
The Regional Secretary stressed that this is also a way of strengthening the environmental component in the regional tourism, "which should be always present."
"Otherwise, we would not be consistent with what we stand for regarding the importance of sustainability of our tourism offer," added Marta Guerreiro.