Secretaria Regional do Turismo, Mobilidade e Infraestruturas
Berta Cabral diz que Açores reforçam liderança na inovação energética com projeto europeu EV4EU
Berta Cabral diz que Açores reforçam liderança na inovação energética com projeto europeu EV4EU
Secretaria Regional do Ambiente e Ação Climática
Regional Government refutes unfounded criticism from CCIAH regarding Drought and Water Scarcity Plan
Regional Government refutes unfounded criticism from CCIAH regarding Drought and Water Scarcity Plan
Secretaria Regional dos Assuntos Parlamentares e Comunidades
Paulo Estêvão welcomes Azores’ inclusion as full member of Interministerial Working Group on Space
Paulo Estêvão welcomes Azores’ inclusion as full member of Interministerial Working Group on Space
Presidência do Governo Regional
José Manuel Bolieiro highlights Azores’ priorities and implementation of European funds during visit with European Commission
José Manuel Bolieiro highlights Azores’ priorities and implementation of European funds during visit with European Commission
Nota de Imprensa
April 10, 2026 Berta Cabral diz que Açores reforçam liderança na inovação energética com projeto europeu EV4EU A Secretária Regional do Turismo, Mobilidade e Infraestruturas, Berta Cabral, destacou hoje, em Ponta Delgada, a relevância estratégica do projeto europeu EV4EU – Electric Vehicles Management for Carbon Neutrality in Europe - para o futuro energético da Região Autónoma dos Açores. A governante falava no auditório do Laboratório Regional de Engenharia Civil (LREC), na sessão dedicada à apresentação dos resultados do demonstrador português do projeto, localizado na ilha de São Miguel. Financiado pelo programa Horizonte Europa, o EV4EU “colocou os Açores no centro da reflexão europeia sobre soluções inovadoras para a integração da mobilidade elétrica nos sistemas energéticos”, afirmou. Berta Cabral elogiou o papel da Direção Regional da Energia e do LREC, sublinhando que a integração de entidades açorianas num consórcio internacional “demonstra a elevada capacidade técnica existente na Região e o valor de iniciativas que trazem conhecimento, inovação e experiência prática para os Açores”. Estes projetos, acrescentou, “não são meros exercícios académicos ou laboratoriais, mas instrumentos concretos de capacitação regional, essenciais para aproximar os Açores das melhores práticas europeias”, reforçando que “a inovação é um pilar incontornável da transição energética”. Segundo Berta Cabral, “não haverá futuro sustentável sem soluções tecnológicas inteligentes, sem novos modelos de gestão da energia e sem a integração coerente de setores como a energia e a mobilidade”. A governante salientou que a mobilidade elétrica representa “uma oportunidade única para acelerar a descarbonização, aumentar a eficiência do sistema elétrico e reforçar a integração das energias renováveis”, destacando o percurso de referência dos Açores nesta área. Berta Cabral recordou ainda o investimento consistente da Região em fontes renováveis, com especial enfoque na energia geotérmica, um exemplo claro da aposta em recursos endógenos que reduzem a dependência de combustíveis fósseis, diminuem emissões e reforçam a segurança energética. Neste quadro, a responsável da tutela afirmou que a mobilidade elétrica assume um papel central na estratégia regional, destacando o Plano para a Mobilidade Elétrica dos Açores (PMEA) como instrumento estruturante da visão governamental para uma economia mais limpa, eficiente e sustentável. O projeto EV4EU, disse, “acrescentou valor significativo a este percurso”. O EV4EU desenvolveu e testou estratégias inovadoras de gestão inteligente de veículos elétricos, com destaque para soluções Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X), que demonstram como os veículos podem evoluir de simples consumidores de energia para unidades de armazenamento distribuído, capazes de apoiar a rede elétrica, absorver excedentes de produção renovável e reforçar a resiliência do sistema — especialmente relevante em territórios insulares como os Açores. Segundo a Secretária Regional, o demonstrador instalado em São Miguel “permitiu identificar limitações, consolidar conhecimento e retirar ensinamentos essenciais para futuros desenvolvimentos”, sublinhando que mesmo quando a implementação não é imediata, “o conhecimento adquirido é de valor inegável e constitui base sólida para novas abordagens e projetos”. Num mundo marcado por mudanças constantes, Berta Cabral reforçou a urgência de investir na inovação, na transição energética e na diversificação de fontes, para construir “um futuro mais resiliente, seguro e próspero”. A Secretária Regional recordou ainda o contributo dos projetos desenvolvidos ao abrigo do PRR, através dos quais a EDA reforçou a produção elétrica para fornecimento público, enquanto os privados, com o SOLENERGE, investiram no autoconsumo. Foi neste quadro que destacou que projetos como o EV4EU “provam que os Açores têm condições para participar ativamente na construção das soluções energéticas do futuro, contribuindo para os objetivos regionais, nacionais e europeus de neutralidade carbónica”. “Este é um caminho que estamos a trilhar com sucesso, reconhecido internacionalmente e que nos posiciona nos melhores ‘benchmarks’ de desenvolvimento sustentável”, afirmou, concluindo que a transição energética na Região “é um desígnio estratégico construído de forma estruturada e coerente”. Berta Cabral rematou defendendo que “é vital que entidades públicas, privadas e cada cidadão assumam o seu papel de forma autónoma, consciente e responsável neste processo transformador”.
April 10, 2026 Berta Cabral diz que Açores reforçam liderança na inovação energética com projeto europeu EV4EU A Secretária Regional do Turismo, Mobilidade e Infraestruturas, Berta Cabral, destacou hoje, em Ponta Delgada, a relevância estratégica do projeto europeu EV4EU – Electric Vehicles Management for Carbon Neutrality in Europe - para o futuro energético da Região Autónoma dos Açores. A governante falava no auditório do Laboratório Regional de Engenharia Civil (LREC), na sessão dedicada à apresentação dos resultados do demonstrador português do projeto, localizado na ilha de São Miguel. Financiado pelo programa Horizonte Europa, o EV4EU “colocou os Açores no centro da reflexão europeia sobre soluções inovadoras para a integração da mobilidade elétrica nos sistemas energéticos”, afirmou. Berta Cabral elogiou o papel da Direção Regional da Energia e do LREC, sublinhando que a integração de entidades açorianas num consórcio internacional “demonstra a elevada capacidade técnica existente na Região e o valor de iniciativas que trazem conhecimento, inovação e experiência prática para os Açores”. Estes projetos, acrescentou, “não são meros exercícios académicos ou laboratoriais, mas instrumentos concretos de capacitação regional, essenciais para aproximar os Açores das melhores práticas europeias”, reforçando que “a inovação é um pilar incontornável da transição energética”. Segundo Berta Cabral, “não haverá futuro sustentável sem soluções tecnológicas inteligentes, sem novos modelos de gestão da energia e sem a integração coerente de setores como a energia e a mobilidade”. A governante salientou que a mobilidade elétrica representa “uma oportunidade única para acelerar a descarbonização, aumentar a eficiência do sistema elétrico e reforçar a integração das energias renováveis”, destacando o percurso de referência dos Açores nesta área. Berta Cabral recordou ainda o investimento consistente da Região em fontes renováveis, com especial enfoque na energia geotérmica, um exemplo claro da aposta em recursos endógenos que reduzem a dependência de combustíveis fósseis, diminuem emissões e reforçam a segurança energética. Neste quadro, a responsável da tutela afirmou que a mobilidade elétrica assume um papel central na estratégia regional, destacando o Plano para a Mobilidade Elétrica dos Açores (PMEA) como instrumento estruturante da visão governamental para uma economia mais limpa, eficiente e sustentável. O projeto EV4EU, disse, “acrescentou valor significativo a este percurso”. O EV4EU desenvolveu e testou estratégias inovadoras de gestão inteligente de veículos elétricos, com destaque para soluções Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X), que demonstram como os veículos podem evoluir de simples consumidores de energia para unidades de armazenamento distribuído, capazes de apoiar a rede elétrica, absorver excedentes de produção renovável e reforçar a resiliência do sistema — especialmente relevante em territórios insulares como os Açores. Segundo a Secretária Regional, o demonstrador instalado em São Miguel “permitiu identificar limitações, consolidar conhecimento e retirar ensinamentos essenciais para futuros desenvolvimentos”, sublinhando que mesmo quando a implementação não é imediata, “o conhecimento adquirido é de valor inegável e constitui base sólida para novas abordagens e projetos”. Num mundo marcado por mudanças constantes, Berta Cabral reforçou a urgência de investir na inovação, na transição energética e na diversificação de fontes, para construir “um futuro mais resiliente, seguro e próspero”. A Secretária Regional recordou ainda o contributo dos projetos desenvolvidos ao abrigo do PRR, através dos quais a EDA reforçou a produção elétrica para fornecimento público, enquanto os privados, com o SOLENERGE, investiram no autoconsumo. Foi neste quadro que destacou que projetos como o EV4EU “provam que os Açores têm condições para participar ativamente na construção das soluções energéticas do futuro, contribuindo para os objetivos regionais, nacionais e europeus de neutralidade carbónica”. “Este é um caminho que estamos a trilhar com sucesso, reconhecido internacionalmente e que nos posiciona nos melhores ‘benchmarks’ de desenvolvimento sustentável”, afirmou, concluindo que a transição energética na Região “é um desígnio estratégico construído de forma estruturada e coerente”. Berta Cabral rematou defendendo que “é vital que entidades públicas, privadas e cada cidadão assumam o seu papel de forma autónoma, consciente e responsável neste processo transformador”.
Nota de Imprensa
April 10, 2026 Regional Government refutes unfounded criticism from CCIAH regarding Drought and Water Scarcity Plan Following the statements made by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Angra do Heroísmo (CCIAH) regarding the Azores Drought and Water Scarcity Management Plan (PSE-Açores), the Government of the Azores, through the Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Action, hereby provides the following information to clarify the technical details and refute several claims that are not supported by the approved document: PSE-Açores is a non-sectoral strategic planning tool designed to establish technical criteria, monitoring mechanisms, contingency levels and an integrated framework of measures to prevent, prepare for and respond to situations of drought and water scarcity. This includes actions to manage water supply and demand, strengthen infrastructures, improve the efficiency of water supply systems, reduce losses and promote the efficient use of this resource. With a view to implementing these goals, PSE-Açores carries out a detailed assessment and analysis of water availability, consumption, pressures on water resources and the structural vulnerabilities of the territory. This is based on data collected and validated by official sources, such as the Regional Water Programme and the Azores River Basin Management Plan (PGRH-Açores), as well as data collected from the official entites responsible for this area, namely the Entity for the Regulation of Water and Waste Services of the Azores (ERSARA), the water supply system operators, and the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA), through surveys and technical meetings held for this purpose. In other words, PSE-Açores was based on actual registered and reported figures, rather than on isolated figures or generic estimates that were not methodologically aligned. Nevertheless, it is inevitably dated, and its underlying data should be reviewed and updated whenever more recent or disaggregated data become available. Contrary to what CCIAH claims, PSE-Açores does not ignore developments in the tourism sector in the Azores, which are duly identified in the technical assessment, explicitly recognising its economic significance, seasonality and potential pressure on water resources. As with other relevant sectors, it is covered by monitoring mechanisms and measures for adaptation, prevention and contingency. It is also important to clarify that the figures for water consumption per tourist, as reported by CCIAH, do not reflect the reality in the Azores, given that the figure presented by PSE-Açores is a regional sectoral average, taking into account all tourist accommodation units. The prospective scenarios developed under the PGRH-Açores consider an average per capita consumption of 300 litres of water per day for each tourist, more than double the estimated figure for a resident. In PSE-Açores, the reference figure used is 320 litres of water per day for each tourist, which already anticipates a margin for growth in water consumption associated with tourism. This figure is substantially lower than the 600 to 800 litres of water per day, for each tourist, as publicly stated by CCIAH. Nevertheless, PSE-Açores acknowledges that part of tourism-related consumption may be diluted within broader urban categories, meaning that this estimate of 320 litres per day may be underestimated for certain segments or specific types of tourism. Consequently, there is a need to further disaggregate tourism-related consumption and step up its monitoring, something that PSE-Açores has already identified as a priority. The proposals put forward by CCIAH may, in time, address needs identified in other parts of the country or the world, where climatic conditions are more demanding in terms of water requirements than those found in the Azores. They may also address types of tourist accommodation that are non-existent or uncommon in the Azores, such as resorts, where the maintenance of extensive landscaped areas, golf courses, large swimming pool complexes or other infrastructures places substantially greater demands on water resources. The situation in the Azores is profoundly different, both in terms of climatic conditions and the model of tourism development adopted, which is based on sustainability principles and prioritises the establishment of tourist facilities with efficient water usage and consumption systems. Therefore, it is incorrect to claim that PSE-Açores overlooks tourism or downplays its importance. On the contrary, it takes due account of its relevance, even assessing the influence of the floating population and tourism seasonality on the pressure on water resources, whilst also providing for measures that directly address uses and activities associated with the sector, including progressive restrictions in contingency contexts during water shortage periods. PSE-Açores also includes prevention and adaptation measures relevant to the sector, such as enhanced monitoring, the establishment of measurement and control zones, improvements to measurement and remote management systems, the analysis of specific consumption patterns, and incentives for water efficiency and reuse solutions. Regarding the criticism concerning the “lack of a clear funding model for the identified investments," it is important to clarify that PSE-Açores is a strategic planning tool, whose financial implementation of the planned measures is supported by public policy funding instruments available at a regional, national and EU level for the various sectors of activity. PSE-Açores was designed as a tool for continuous improvement, with a monitoring, evaluation and review model. Before its approval, it was submitted to 32 entities external to the Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Action, relevant stakeholders with expertise in the field, to be involved in the implementation of this plan, for review, feedback and validation. It was also submitted for consideration to the Regional Council for the Environment and Sustainable Development of the Azores (CRADS) at a meeting held on July 26, 2024, which the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Azores attended and was represented at. In this regard, CCIAH had the opportunity to raise the legitimate concerns it has now made public. Nevertheless, PSE-Açores has established a Regional Commission for the Management of Droughts and Water Scarcity, with an interdisciplinary and participatory component. It comprises representatives from various sectors, including tourism, ensuring a model of collaborative governance open to the participation and contributions of all relevant entities, with the possibility of introducing improvements, new information and operational proposals. A technical working group has also been set up to monitor climatic and hydrological variables, produce periodic reports and formulate proposals for prevention, preparedness, contingency and adaptation measures. Within this institutional framework, all sectoral contributions can be discussed with rigour and practical utility. The Government of the Azores reiterates its commitment to the sustainable management of the region’s water resources and the active involvement of all socio-economic sectors in this collective effort, through the monitoring and governance mechanisms set out in PSE-Açores itself, thereby strengthening responsible inter-institutional dialogue on an area of significant public importance. The management of drought and water scarcity is a collective and ongoing challenge. All constructive contributions are welcome. However, their usefulness depends on their integration into the appropriate technical and institutional channels, supported by verifiable and contextualised data. Public criticism made out of context, without first seeking further clarification, is not the most useful way to contribute to an issue that demands cooperation, rigour and a sense of responsibility. The Azores Drought and Water Scarcity Management Plan, a pioneering initiative in Portugal, represents a decisive step in preparing the Region for climate change challenges by strengthening its water resilience and reinforcing its commitment to the sustainable management of a strategic resource that is essential for present and forthcoming generations.
April 10, 2026 Regional Government refutes unfounded criticism from CCIAH regarding Drought and Water Scarcity Plan Following the statements made by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Angra do Heroísmo (CCIAH) regarding the Azores Drought and Water Scarcity Management Plan (PSE-Açores), the Government of the Azores, through the Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Action, hereby provides the following information to clarify the technical details and refute several claims that are not supported by the approved document: PSE-Açores is a non-sectoral strategic planning tool designed to establish technical criteria, monitoring mechanisms, contingency levels and an integrated framework of measures to prevent, prepare for and respond to situations of drought and water scarcity. This includes actions to manage water supply and demand, strengthen infrastructures, improve the efficiency of water supply systems, reduce losses and promote the efficient use of this resource. With a view to implementing these goals, PSE-Açores carries out a detailed assessment and analysis of water availability, consumption, pressures on water resources and the structural vulnerabilities of the territory. This is based on data collected and validated by official sources, such as the Regional Water Programme and the Azores River Basin Management Plan (PGRH-Açores), as well as data collected from the official entites responsible for this area, namely the Entity for the Regulation of Water and Waste Services of the Azores (ERSARA), the water supply system operators, and the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA), through surveys and technical meetings held for this purpose. In other words, PSE-Açores was based on actual registered and reported figures, rather than on isolated figures or generic estimates that were not methodologically aligned. Nevertheless, it is inevitably dated, and its underlying data should be reviewed and updated whenever more recent or disaggregated data become available. Contrary to what CCIAH claims, PSE-Açores does not ignore developments in the tourism sector in the Azores, which are duly identified in the technical assessment, explicitly recognising its economic significance, seasonality and potential pressure on water resources. As with other relevant sectors, it is covered by monitoring mechanisms and measures for adaptation, prevention and contingency. It is also important to clarify that the figures for water consumption per tourist, as reported by CCIAH, do not reflect the reality in the Azores, given that the figure presented by PSE-Açores is a regional sectoral average, taking into account all tourist accommodation units. The prospective scenarios developed under the PGRH-Açores consider an average per capita consumption of 300 litres of water per day for each tourist, more than double the estimated figure for a resident. In PSE-Açores, the reference figure used is 320 litres of water per day for each tourist, which already anticipates a margin for growth in water consumption associated with tourism. This figure is substantially lower than the 600 to 800 litres of water per day, for each tourist, as publicly stated by CCIAH. Nevertheless, PSE-Açores acknowledges that part of tourism-related consumption may be diluted within broader urban categories, meaning that this estimate of 320 litres per day may be underestimated for certain segments or specific types of tourism. Consequently, there is a need to further disaggregate tourism-related consumption and step up its monitoring, something that PSE-Açores has already identified as a priority. The proposals put forward by CCIAH may, in time, address needs identified in other parts of the country or the world, where climatic conditions are more demanding in terms of water requirements than those found in the Azores. They may also address types of tourist accommodation that are non-existent or uncommon in the Azores, such as resorts, where the maintenance of extensive landscaped areas, golf courses, large swimming pool complexes or other infrastructures places substantially greater demands on water resources. The situation in the Azores is profoundly different, both in terms of climatic conditions and the model of tourism development adopted, which is based on sustainability principles and prioritises the establishment of tourist facilities with efficient water usage and consumption systems. Therefore, it is incorrect to claim that PSE-Açores overlooks tourism or downplays its importance. On the contrary, it takes due account of its relevance, even assessing the influence of the floating population and tourism seasonality on the pressure on water resources, whilst also providing for measures that directly address uses and activities associated with the sector, including progressive restrictions in contingency contexts during water shortage periods. PSE-Açores also includes prevention and adaptation measures relevant to the sector, such as enhanced monitoring, the establishment of measurement and control zones, improvements to measurement and remote management systems, the analysis of specific consumption patterns, and incentives for water efficiency and reuse solutions. Regarding the criticism concerning the “lack of a clear funding model for the identified investments," it is important to clarify that PSE-Açores is a strategic planning tool, whose financial implementation of the planned measures is supported by public policy funding instruments available at a regional, national and EU level for the various sectors of activity. PSE-Açores was designed as a tool for continuous improvement, with a monitoring, evaluation and review model. Before its approval, it was submitted to 32 entities external to the Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Action, relevant stakeholders with expertise in the field, to be involved in the implementation of this plan, for review, feedback and validation. It was also submitted for consideration to the Regional Council for the Environment and Sustainable Development of the Azores (CRADS) at a meeting held on July 26, 2024, which the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Azores attended and was represented at. In this regard, CCIAH had the opportunity to raise the legitimate concerns it has now made public. Nevertheless, PSE-Açores has established a Regional Commission for the Management of Droughts and Water Scarcity, with an interdisciplinary and participatory component. It comprises representatives from various sectors, including tourism, ensuring a model of collaborative governance open to the participation and contributions of all relevant entities, with the possibility of introducing improvements, new information and operational proposals. A technical working group has also been set up to monitor climatic and hydrological variables, produce periodic reports and formulate proposals for prevention, preparedness, contingency and adaptation measures. Within this institutional framework, all sectoral contributions can be discussed with rigour and practical utility. The Government of the Azores reiterates its commitment to the sustainable management of the region’s water resources and the active involvement of all socio-economic sectors in this collective effort, through the monitoring and governance mechanisms set out in PSE-Açores itself, thereby strengthening responsible inter-institutional dialogue on an area of significant public importance. The management of drought and water scarcity is a collective and ongoing challenge. All constructive contributions are welcome. However, their usefulness depends on their integration into the appropriate technical and institutional channels, supported by verifiable and contextualised data. Public criticism made out of context, without first seeking further clarification, is not the most useful way to contribute to an issue that demands cooperation, rigour and a sense of responsibility. The Azores Drought and Water Scarcity Management Plan, a pioneering initiative in Portugal, represents a decisive step in preparing the Region for climate change challenges by strengthening its water resilience and reinforcing its commitment to the sustainable management of a strategic resource that is essential for present and forthcoming generations.
Nota de Imprensa
April 10, 2026 Paulo Estêvão welcomes Azores’ inclusion as full member of Interministerial Working Group on Space The Regional Secretary for Parliamentary Affairs and Communities, Paulo Estêvão, welcomed the official inclusion of the Autonomous Region of the Azores as a full member of the new Interministerial Working Group on Space. The new structure of this national coordination body was made official through Order no. 4643/2026, published in the Official Gazette. It ensures the direct participation of the Regional Government of the Azores (and Madeira) in all meetings and strategic decision-making processes. The published decree justifies the inclusion of the autonomous regions due to the “geostrategic importance of the Atlantic islands in the national and European context.” The document clearly acknowledges that “the Azores’ position in the Atlantic provides a point of access and return for space activities of great geostrategic significance, something that is recognised internationally.” For the Regional Secretary, who oversees the space sector within the Regional Government, this active presence in European and national decision-making bodies – particularly in coordinating positions with the European Space Agency (ESA) and the European Union – is already yielding practical benefits of enormous significance for the archipelago. “Our involvement has already yielded a tangible result: progress towards the construction of the Santa Maria Space Technology Centre, which will be used to land unmanned spacecraft,” noted Paulo Estêvão. This flagship project for the island of Santa Maria, developed in collaboration with ESA, represents an overall investment of about €15 million (with €3 million from the Azorean Government). Full integration into this Working Group consolidates the comprehensive strategy pursued by the Regional Government for the development of the regional space ecosystem. The aim is not merely to create infrastructures, but to develop local talent. One example of this is the recent agreement reached with the University of the Azores to establish a cooperation agreement aimed at training qualified personnel in the aerospace technology and research fields. Alongside higher education, this department has been focusing on engaging young people in scientific literacy. This is reflected in the record number of 40 Azorean students selected this year for the 5th edition of the Portuguese Space Agency’s national programme “Astronaut for a Day," whose parabolic flight will be carried out again from Santa Maria Island next September. The Government of the Azores, therefore, reiterates its commitment to strengthening the regional space ecosystem. It will work in close collaboration with the Portuguese Government and international partners to attract investment, create highly skilled jobs and consolidate state-of-the-art technological infrastructures in the Region, ensuring that future generations of Azoreans have real career opportunities in the aerospace sector.
April 10, 2026 Paulo Estêvão welcomes Azores’ inclusion as full member of Interministerial Working Group on Space The Regional Secretary for Parliamentary Affairs and Communities, Paulo Estêvão, welcomed the official inclusion of the Autonomous Region of the Azores as a full member of the new Interministerial Working Group on Space. The new structure of this national coordination body was made official through Order no. 4643/2026, published in the Official Gazette. It ensures the direct participation of the Regional Government of the Azores (and Madeira) in all meetings and strategic decision-making processes. The published decree justifies the inclusion of the autonomous regions due to the “geostrategic importance of the Atlantic islands in the national and European context.” The document clearly acknowledges that “the Azores’ position in the Atlantic provides a point of access and return for space activities of great geostrategic significance, something that is recognised internationally.” For the Regional Secretary, who oversees the space sector within the Regional Government, this active presence in European and national decision-making bodies – particularly in coordinating positions with the European Space Agency (ESA) and the European Union – is already yielding practical benefits of enormous significance for the archipelago. “Our involvement has already yielded a tangible result: progress towards the construction of the Santa Maria Space Technology Centre, which will be used to land unmanned spacecraft,” noted Paulo Estêvão. This flagship project for the island of Santa Maria, developed in collaboration with ESA, represents an overall investment of about €15 million (with €3 million from the Azorean Government). Full integration into this Working Group consolidates the comprehensive strategy pursued by the Regional Government for the development of the regional space ecosystem. The aim is not merely to create infrastructures, but to develop local talent. One example of this is the recent agreement reached with the University of the Azores to establish a cooperation agreement aimed at training qualified personnel in the aerospace technology and research fields. Alongside higher education, this department has been focusing on engaging young people in scientific literacy. This is reflected in the record number of 40 Azorean students selected this year for the 5th edition of the Portuguese Space Agency’s national programme “Astronaut for a Day," whose parabolic flight will be carried out again from Santa Maria Island next September. The Government of the Azores, therefore, reiterates its commitment to strengthening the regional space ecosystem. It will work in close collaboration with the Portuguese Government and international partners to attract investment, create highly skilled jobs and consolidate state-of-the-art technological infrastructures in the Region, ensuring that future generations of Azoreans have real career opportunities in the aerospace sector.
Nota de Imprensa
April 9, 2026 José Manuel Bolieiro highlights Azores’ priorities and implementation of European funds during visit with European Commission The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, accompanied by the European Commission’s Executive Vice-President for Cohesion and Reforms, Raffaele Fitto, visited today several projects supported by European funds on the island of São Miguel, highlighting at first hand the impact of European Union policies on the Region. The visit included the Trás-os-Mosteiros housing development located in Largo das Freiras, in the parish of Matriz, municipality of Ribeira Grande, and the São Miguel Island Ecopark (MUSAMI), an investment under the Cohesion Programme and co-financed by the ERDF. The housing development comprises 52 new apartments: three one-bedroom apartments, 31 two-bedroom apartments and 18 three-bedroom apartments, resulting from a regional and EU public investment of over €7 million under the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP). The properties will be allocated on a lease with purchase option scheme, with tenants having the option to purchase one year after signing the contract. At the São Miguel Island Ecopark, the Energy Recovery Plant was highlighted as a key infrastructure that represents the Azores’ commitment to a more sustainable, circular and resilient development model. The investment received EU funding of €68 million, with €47 million from the PO-SEUR programme and €21 million under the Azores 2030 initiative. This event followed a working meeting held at the Santana Palace, after the audience for the exchange of greetings, during which the Government of the Azores presented its view on European Union policies and the financial instruments available to the Region. According to José Manuel Bolieiro, the meeting was an opportunity to “identify priorities and align expectations” regarding the current funding framework and the next multiannual financial programming period. “Cohesion is essential. We need to ensure infrastructures, create the conditions for the right to remain and strengthen the Azores’ attractiveness,” he said, emphasising the importance of areas such as territorial and social cohesion, mobility, the blue economy, agriculture, energy, and connectivity with the rest of the country and Europe. The head of the Azorean Government also highlighted that these priorities are aligned with the European Commission’s guidance, while also praising the projects visited as tangible examples of investment in strategic areas such as housing and waste management, “in an archipelago committed to sustainability.” José Manuel Bolieiro emphasised that the Azores are not merely a region with needs, but also “a region of opportunities,” with significant potential for the country and the European Union, particularly in the fields of security, defence, innovation and competitiveness in the Atlantic region. The President of the Government also highlighted the Region’s capacity to implement EU funds. “We have demonstrated our ability to make good use of the funds and have fostered genuine social and economic progress,” he said. Finally, José Manuel Bolieiro highlighted the importance of the assurance given by the Vice-President of the European Commission regarding the future of the Cohesion Policy, reiterating the Azores’ position in favour of simplifying European instruments, whilst calling for stability in funding. “We are in favour of simplification, but we need the assurance that the funds essential for the growth and development of an outermost region will be maintained,” he concluded.
April 9, 2026 José Manuel Bolieiro highlights Azores’ priorities and implementation of European funds during visit with European Commission The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, accompanied by the European Commission’s Executive Vice-President for Cohesion and Reforms, Raffaele Fitto, visited today several projects supported by European funds on the island of São Miguel, highlighting at first hand the impact of European Union policies on the Region. The visit included the Trás-os-Mosteiros housing development located in Largo das Freiras, in the parish of Matriz, municipality of Ribeira Grande, and the São Miguel Island Ecopark (MUSAMI), an investment under the Cohesion Programme and co-financed by the ERDF. The housing development comprises 52 new apartments: three one-bedroom apartments, 31 two-bedroom apartments and 18 three-bedroom apartments, resulting from a regional and EU public investment of over €7 million under the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP). The properties will be allocated on a lease with purchase option scheme, with tenants having the option to purchase one year after signing the contract. At the São Miguel Island Ecopark, the Energy Recovery Plant was highlighted as a key infrastructure that represents the Azores’ commitment to a more sustainable, circular and resilient development model. The investment received EU funding of €68 million, with €47 million from the PO-SEUR programme and €21 million under the Azores 2030 initiative. This event followed a working meeting held at the Santana Palace, after the audience for the exchange of greetings, during which the Government of the Azores presented its view on European Union policies and the financial instruments available to the Region. According to José Manuel Bolieiro, the meeting was an opportunity to “identify priorities and align expectations” regarding the current funding framework and the next multiannual financial programming period. “Cohesion is essential. We need to ensure infrastructures, create the conditions for the right to remain and strengthen the Azores’ attractiveness,” he said, emphasising the importance of areas such as territorial and social cohesion, mobility, the blue economy, agriculture, energy, and connectivity with the rest of the country and Europe. The head of the Azorean Government also highlighted that these priorities are aligned with the European Commission’s guidance, while also praising the projects visited as tangible examples of investment in strategic areas such as housing and waste management, “in an archipelago committed to sustainability.” José Manuel Bolieiro emphasised that the Azores are not merely a region with needs, but also “a region of opportunities,” with significant potential for the country and the European Union, particularly in the fields of security, defence, innovation and competitiveness in the Atlantic region. The President of the Government also highlighted the Region’s capacity to implement EU funds. “We have demonstrated our ability to make good use of the funds and have fostered genuine social and economic progress,” he said. Finally, José Manuel Bolieiro highlighted the importance of the assurance given by the Vice-President of the European Commission regarding the future of the Cohesion Policy, reiterating the Azores’ position in favour of simplifying European instruments, whilst calling for stability in funding. “We are in favour of simplification, but we need the assurance that the funds essential for the growth and development of an outermost region will be maintained,” he concluded.
Nota de Imprensa
April 9, 2026 Press release Following the entry into operation of the Deposit and Refund System (SDR) for single-use beverage packaging (VOLTA), which is being implemented by SDR Portugal – Packaging Association throughout the country, including the Autonomous Regions, the Regional Government of the Azores hereby provides the following information: - The national VOLTA scheme officially enters into force on April 10, 2026, with a transition period beginning simultaneously and running until August 9 of this year. This scheme, known under the VOLTA brand, is a national mechanism for the recovery of non-reusable packaging for recycling purposes, based on a direct financial incentive for consumers. This National Deposit and Refund System is part of the national policy on waste management and the promotion of the circular economy. It is aligned with European targets for the separate collection of packaging and the incorporation of recycled plastic, namely those set out in Directive (EU) 2019/904 of the European Parliament and of the Council of June 5, 2019, and Directive 94/62/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of December 20, 1994. It also has its legal framework laid down in national legislation, namely in Decree-Law no. 152-D/2017 of December 11, in its current wording, and Decree-Law no. 24/2024 of March 26, in its current wording. The VOLTA system covers single-use primary beverage containers with a capacity of less than three litres, made from plastic, ferrous metals and aluminium. It includes beverages such as water, juices and nectars, soft drinks, energy drinks, beer, cider and other similar beverages sold on the domestic market. It should be noted that any packaging not bearing the VOLTA symbol, specifically ECAL packaging (e.g. Tetra Pak®), glass, and drinks containing more than 25% milk, is not accepted by the national deposit and refund system. Consumers are advised that, at the time of purchase, a 0.10 deposit will be charged per packaging item covered by this system. The amount will be fully refunded when the packaging is returned to an authorised collection point. The aim is to encourage the return of non-reusable beverage packaging and, thereby, ensure that the VOLTA system meets the established national targets. The deposit can be refunded via a voucher redeemable for cash, an in-store discount voucher, a loyalty card, a donation or future digital solutions. Once returned, the packaging is sent to counting and sorting centres, where it is processed and converted into food-grade secondary raw materials, which will then be used in the production of new packaging. During the transition period, until August 9, 2026, only packaging bearing the VOLTA symbol will be accepted by the national deposit and refund system. Therefore, only such packaging may be returned to the machines and collection points. Packaging that does not bear the VOLTA symbol may remain on the market; however, it should not include a deposit and must be placed in the appropriate recycling collection points. From August 10, 2026, all disposable beverage containers with a capacity of less than three litres, made of plastic, ferrous metals and aluminium, including those used for water, juices and nectars, soft drinks, energy drinks, beer, cider and other similar beverages, placed on the market, must be included in the deposit and refund system and bear the VOLTA symbol. As for commercial establishments selling beverages covered by the Deposit and Refund System, the acceptance of packaging is mandatory under the following conditions: a) Establishments with a display and sales area of 400 m² or more must accept all packaging included in the SDR; b) Establishments with a continuous display and sales area of more than 50 m² and less than 400 m² must accept, at a minimum, the packaging sold in the respective establishment, without prejudice to the exceptions provided for in the applicable legislation; In addition to the above, the HORECA sector (cafés, restaurants, bars and similar establishments where the packaging was purchased), given its particularly significant role due to the high volume of packaging on the market, is required to charge the deposit, itemise it on the bill and ensure customers are reimbursed upon returning the packaging according to the stipulated conditions. However, it should be noted that HORECA establishments are only required to accept packaging they have sold. It should also be noted that in establishments where payment is made at the end of the meal, no deposit is charged, as the packaging remains with the establishment, which is responsible for returning the VOLTA packaging. However, if payment is made in advance, the deposit is charged, and the customer is responsible for returning the packaging. Consequently, all such establishments are required to register with SDR Portugal – Packaging Association whenever they sell beverages in packaging covered by this system, via the association's online platform, available at https://sdrportugal.pt/. This page also provides information regarding communications about the system, information sessions held, and answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs). Collection points, which include VOLTA machines, kiosks and manual collection points, must accept packaging bearing the VOLTA symbol and a valid barcode, provided that the packaging is intact (not crushed) and empty, with the cap (on bottles) in place and the barcode legible. However, it is not necessary to clean the packaging, as long as it is empty and in a condition that allows it to be identified. At collection points, the registration certificate issued by SDR Portugal – Packaging Association must be visible. There must also be clear and accessible signage indicating the areas designated for returns, adequate space for temporary storage, and clear information available on the return and refund process. The deposit must also be clearly itemised in prices and billing documents. Operators who set up collection points may choose to purchase or hire the machines, or opt for manual collection, which allows retailers to accept packaging at the point of sale. Operators should liaise with SDR Portugal – Packaging Association regarding the collection method and frequency. The latter can be contacted via the website: https://sdrportugal.pt/contacte-a-sdr-portugal/ or via the SDR Portugal Helpline: 210 195 116. Regarding the Deposit and Refund System in the Azores, it should be noted that, since October 2025, various contacts have been made with the Chambers of Commerce of the Autonomous Region of the Azores, Municipal Councils and other relevant entities in this area. Furthermore, the SDR promoted an online information session, specifically for the Autonomous Region of the Azores, on March 19, 2026, involving 117 participants. The SDR has also established partnerships with regional operators for the collection of VOLTA packaging at authorised collection points. In São Miguel, collection is carried out by ETE Logística, whilst sorting, baling and placement in containers is carried out by MUSAMI. In Terceira, Pico, Faial, Flores, Corvo and Santa Maria, Resiaçores carries out the collection, sorting, baling and placement in containers. In São Jorge and Graciosa, Equiambi carries out collection, sorting, baling and placement in containers. It should also be noted that 71 collection points have already been registered, and there will also be an RVM Bulk kiosk to support the HORECA sector at MUSAMI, located in Ecoparque I on the island of São Miguel. The implementation of the VOLTA National System thus represents a decisive milestone for Portugal and the Azores, as a step towards a circular economy, promoting the efficient collection of packaging, the reintegration of recycled materials into the value chain, the reduction of waste, and shared environmental responsibility. This will strengthen sustainable resource management in the Azores and bring the Autonomous Region of the Azores into line with European targets.
April 9, 2026 Press release Following the entry into operation of the Deposit and Refund System (SDR) for single-use beverage packaging (VOLTA), which is being implemented by SDR Portugal – Packaging Association throughout the country, including the Autonomous Regions, the Regional Government of the Azores hereby provides the following information: - The national VOLTA scheme officially enters into force on April 10, 2026, with a transition period beginning simultaneously and running until August 9 of this year. This scheme, known under the VOLTA brand, is a national mechanism for the recovery of non-reusable packaging for recycling purposes, based on a direct financial incentive for consumers. This National Deposit and Refund System is part of the national policy on waste management and the promotion of the circular economy. It is aligned with European targets for the separate collection of packaging and the incorporation of recycled plastic, namely those set out in Directive (EU) 2019/904 of the European Parliament and of the Council of June 5, 2019, and Directive 94/62/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of December 20, 1994. It also has its legal framework laid down in national legislation, namely in Decree-Law no. 152-D/2017 of December 11, in its current wording, and Decree-Law no. 24/2024 of March 26, in its current wording. The VOLTA system covers single-use primary beverage containers with a capacity of less than three litres, made from plastic, ferrous metals and aluminium. It includes beverages such as water, juices and nectars, soft drinks, energy drinks, beer, cider and other similar beverages sold on the domestic market. It should be noted that any packaging not bearing the VOLTA symbol, specifically ECAL packaging (e.g. Tetra Pak®), glass, and drinks containing more than 25% milk, is not accepted by the national deposit and refund system. Consumers are advised that, at the time of purchase, a 0.10 deposit will be charged per packaging item covered by this system. The amount will be fully refunded when the packaging is returned to an authorised collection point. The aim is to encourage the return of non-reusable beverage packaging and, thereby, ensure that the VOLTA system meets the established national targets. The deposit can be refunded via a voucher redeemable for cash, an in-store discount voucher, a loyalty card, a donation or future digital solutions. Once returned, the packaging is sent to counting and sorting centres, where it is processed and converted into food-grade secondary raw materials, which will then be used in the production of new packaging. During the transition period, until August 9, 2026, only packaging bearing the VOLTA symbol will be accepted by the national deposit and refund system. Therefore, only such packaging may be returned to the machines and collection points. Packaging that does not bear the VOLTA symbol may remain on the market; however, it should not include a deposit and must be placed in the appropriate recycling collection points. From August 10, 2026, all disposable beverage containers with a capacity of less than three litres, made of plastic, ferrous metals and aluminium, including those used for water, juices and nectars, soft drinks, energy drinks, beer, cider and other similar beverages, placed on the market, must be included in the deposit and refund system and bear the VOLTA symbol. As for commercial establishments selling beverages covered by the Deposit and Refund System, the acceptance of packaging is mandatory under the following conditions: a) Establishments with a display and sales area of 400 m² or more must accept all packaging included in the SDR; b) Establishments with a continuous display and sales area of more than 50 m² and less than 400 m² must accept, at a minimum, the packaging sold in the respective establishment, without prejudice to the exceptions provided for in the applicable legislation; In addition to the above, the HORECA sector (cafés, restaurants, bars and similar establishments where the packaging was purchased), given its particularly significant role due to the high volume of packaging on the market, is required to charge the deposit, itemise it on the bill and ensure customers are reimbursed upon returning the packaging according to the stipulated conditions. However, it should be noted that HORECA establishments are only required to accept packaging they have sold. It should also be noted that in establishments where payment is made at the end of the meal, no deposit is charged, as the packaging remains with the establishment, which is responsible for returning the VOLTA packaging. However, if payment is made in advance, the deposit is charged, and the customer is responsible for returning the packaging. Consequently, all such establishments are required to register with SDR Portugal – Packaging Association whenever they sell beverages in packaging covered by this system, via the association's online platform, available at https://sdrportugal.pt/. This page also provides information regarding communications about the system, information sessions held, and answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs). Collection points, which include VOLTA machines, kiosks and manual collection points, must accept packaging bearing the VOLTA symbol and a valid barcode, provided that the packaging is intact (not crushed) and empty, with the cap (on bottles) in place and the barcode legible. However, it is not necessary to clean the packaging, as long as it is empty and in a condition that allows it to be identified. At collection points, the registration certificate issued by SDR Portugal – Packaging Association must be visible. There must also be clear and accessible signage indicating the areas designated for returns, adequate space for temporary storage, and clear information available on the return and refund process. The deposit must also be clearly itemised in prices and billing documents. Operators who set up collection points may choose to purchase or hire the machines, or opt for manual collection, which allows retailers to accept packaging at the point of sale. Operators should liaise with SDR Portugal – Packaging Association regarding the collection method and frequency. The latter can be contacted via the website: https://sdrportugal.pt/contacte-a-sdr-portugal/ or via the SDR Portugal Helpline: 210 195 116. Regarding the Deposit and Refund System in the Azores, it should be noted that, since October 2025, various contacts have been made with the Chambers of Commerce of the Autonomous Region of the Azores, Municipal Councils and other relevant entities in this area. Furthermore, the SDR promoted an online information session, specifically for the Autonomous Region of the Azores, on March 19, 2026, involving 117 participants. The SDR has also established partnerships with regional operators for the collection of VOLTA packaging at authorised collection points. In São Miguel, collection is carried out by ETE Logística, whilst sorting, baling and placement in containers is carried out by MUSAMI. In Terceira, Pico, Faial, Flores, Corvo and Santa Maria, Resiaçores carries out the collection, sorting, baling and placement in containers. In São Jorge and Graciosa, Equiambi carries out collection, sorting, baling and placement in containers. It should also be noted that 71 collection points have already been registered, and there will also be an RVM Bulk kiosk to support the HORECA sector at MUSAMI, located in Ecoparque I on the island of São Miguel. The implementation of the VOLTA National System thus represents a decisive milestone for Portugal and the Azores, as a step towards a circular economy, promoting the efficient collection of packaging, the reintegration of recycled materials into the value chain, the reduction of waste, and shared environmental responsibility. This will strengthen sustainable resource management in the Azores and bring the Autonomous Region of the Azores into line with European targets.
