Portugal's Minister Urges Balance in Energy Projects and Agriculture

Portugal's Minister of Agriculture, José Manuel Fernandes, has called for a balanced approach to the installation of wind and solar energy farms, emphasizing that these projects should not negatively impact agricultural production. The minister stated that the goal is to reconcile the need for increased energy production with the essential requirement of ensuring food availability.

Fernandes suggested that suitable locations for photovoltaic panels would be on lands not designated for agriculture. He also noted that installations could be elevated above the ground to coexist with farming activities. The minister highlighted that the government aims for this reconciliation of interests, although the licensing authority lies elsewhere.

The minister pointed out that the environmental impact assessment proposals for the Avelanoso wind farm and solar parks in the Mirandês plateau are currently open for public consultation. He urged various entities, civic platforms, and associations to participate in this process to safeguard the public interest, which he defined as encompassing food security, energy security, interest conciliation, and common sense. Fernandes added that environmental considerations should not hinder competitiveness or territorial cohesion.