Medida Solar Térmico

Two months after the new government came to power, its strategy for solar energy still remains a mystery: The new subsidy programme barely mentions renewable energies, but focuses on energy efficiency instead. Last year's two subsidy schemes for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), as well as Private Social Solidarity Institutions (IPSS) and sports facilities have also stopped. And, the tax rebates of roughly EUR 800 for residential clients who purchase renewable energies equipment have no longer been in place since an agreement of the government with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). At present, buyers of solar water heaters can only declare a limited amount as a tax benefit, which means a much smaller savings effect.

The Portuguese government continues its support for the solar thermal sector with an incentive programme for non-profit entities and sports institutions. Announced this June (see link http://www.solarthermalworld.org/node/1329), it was launched on 19 July and allows the submission of applications until 29 October. Projects selected in the north and middle of the country, as well as in the Alentejo region will receive funding of 70% of the investment costs, whereas the Lisbon area and the Algarve region are only eligible for a 50% subsidy. On 23 July, energy agency ADENE signed an agreement with several commercial banks to administer the funds: BPI, Millennium BCP, BES, Banco Popular, Santander Totta, BANIF, General Atlantic and Montepio Caixa Geral de Depósitos.

The government's announcement to invite tenders for a new subsidy scheme was met with mixed feelings throughout the industry: It represents a great chance, but comes at a wrong time.
Photo: Vulcano

Now it is official: The Portuguese government will not extend the solar thermal incentive programme, contrary to informal statements made by the responsible authorities since December 2009. Stopping the incentives could jeopardize a sector which has finally made good progress over the last year.