Culatra 2030 inspires again the publication of a study of good practices

Culatra 2030 is an initiative that demonstrates an island-wide approach to decarbonisation in the southern Portugal region of the Algarve. It aims to transform Culatra island into a global example of sustainability and clean energy by making the island completely energy independent through investments in solar power that will meet all the island’s energy needs, alongside additional investments in other key areas such as water and waste management and transportation. The project is a great example of a community which has been successful in achieving considerable economic, ecological, social, and political benefits for the inhabitants it caters to. The community’s financial model, stakeholder engagement, community involvement, and project management stand out as best practices that could be replicated by other initiatives/communities wishing to establish a successful energy community/initiative.

Culatra 2030 has been very successful in establishing a sustainable development model that is focused on the community and actively involving the island’s residents. The initiative has started its work on transforming the island to sustainable infrastructure by installing solar panels, investing in clean transportation methods, setting up a desalination plant, and by promoting circular economy initiatives. These interventions in the island will lead to a lower carbon footprint, economic prosperity, and social cohesion, effectively improving the daily lives of Culatra’s inhabitants through a process led by the island’s very own inhabitants.

The document, "Culatra 2030, Portugal, An island-wide approach to decarbonisation", which we invite you to read can be consulted in the resources area of this page, was published by the Rural Energy Community Advisory Hub.