Presidência do Governo Regional
Nota à imprensa
Nota à imprensa
Secretaria Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação
Regional Government secures €15.8 million in EU funding for agroforestry circular economy project
Regional Government secures €15.8 million in EU funding for agroforestry circular economy project
Secretaria Regional do Ambiente e Ação Climática
Corvo hosts Portuguese Biosphere Reserves Festival
Corvo hosts Portuguese Biosphere Reserves Festival
Secretaria Regional do Turismo, Mobilidade e Infraestruturas
Azores strengthen leadership in energy transition with launch of European NESOI+ project, says Berta Cabral
Azores strengthen leadership in energy transition with launch of European NESOI+ project, says Berta Cabral
Nota de Imprensa
March 13, 2026 Nota à imprensa Na sequência das declarações do PS sobre o novo Regime de Colaboração com o Poder Local, a Direção Regional da Cooperação com o Poder Local (DRCPL) esclarece: 1. O Governo dos Açores reconhece, valoriza e enaltece o trabalho dos autarcas açorianos na defesa das legítimas expetativas dos seus munícipes e fregueses. Os autarcas são o rosto mais próximo das populações e dos seus anseios. São conhecidos pelos seus nomes, valorizados pelo impacto positivo do seu trabalho e pessoalmente responsabilizados pelos desafios que ainda não foram resolvidos. 2. O Programa do XIV Governo Regional definiu como prioridade, na relação com o poder local, o desenvolvimento de um novo período de parceria e desenvolvimento comum, na sequência da apresentação do novo Regime de Colaboração Técnica e Financeira com as Freguesias e Associações de Freguesias dos Açores. 3. Este regime de colaboração estabeleceu um trabalho comum, estável e equitativo, independente de cores partidárias, e reconhece as Juntas de Freguesia como parceiros de confiança na resposta às necessidades das nossas 155 freguesias. 4. Através de um extenso processo de diálogo, colaboração e concertação, o Governo Regional dos Açores transformou o paradigma da colaboração com o Poder Local nos Açores. 5. De todos os acordos celebrados, sejam de Cooperação, Colaboração e de Coordenação, no montante de 8,6 milhões de euros, foram efetuados pagamentos em cerca de 5,6 milhões de euros, estando previsto, dentro de um prazo aceitável e tendo em conta as datas de receção dos comprovativos de despesa, o pagamento de 374 mil euros, faltando ainda a receção de faturas no valor de 26 mil euros. 6. A diferença entre os valores aprovados e pagos, corresponde a pedidos de prorrogação na execução dos investimentos, solicitados pelas próprias Juntas de Freguesia e, com compreensão, aprovados pelo Governo Regional. 7. Assim, no âmbito do novo Regime de Colaboração com o Poder Local, o Governo dos Açores não tem dívidas para com as Juntas de Freguesia dos Açores e mantém uma relação de respeito e previsibilidade com todas elas, reconhecendo que os seus objetivos são os mesmos que os do Governo dos Açores: responder às necessidades e anseios das populações dos Açores. 8. O XIV Governo Regional dos Açores prosseguirá a sua política de cooperação com o Poder Local, fundado no respeito pela sua autonomia e competências e de acordo com critérios de independência e transparência.
March 13, 2026 Nota à imprensa Na sequência das declarações do PS sobre o novo Regime de Colaboração com o Poder Local, a Direção Regional da Cooperação com o Poder Local (DRCPL) esclarece: 1. O Governo dos Açores reconhece, valoriza e enaltece o trabalho dos autarcas açorianos na defesa das legítimas expetativas dos seus munícipes e fregueses. Os autarcas são o rosto mais próximo das populações e dos seus anseios. São conhecidos pelos seus nomes, valorizados pelo impacto positivo do seu trabalho e pessoalmente responsabilizados pelos desafios que ainda não foram resolvidos. 2. O Programa do XIV Governo Regional definiu como prioridade, na relação com o poder local, o desenvolvimento de um novo período de parceria e desenvolvimento comum, na sequência da apresentação do novo Regime de Colaboração Técnica e Financeira com as Freguesias e Associações de Freguesias dos Açores. 3. Este regime de colaboração estabeleceu um trabalho comum, estável e equitativo, independente de cores partidárias, e reconhece as Juntas de Freguesia como parceiros de confiança na resposta às necessidades das nossas 155 freguesias. 4. Através de um extenso processo de diálogo, colaboração e concertação, o Governo Regional dos Açores transformou o paradigma da colaboração com o Poder Local nos Açores. 5. De todos os acordos celebrados, sejam de Cooperação, Colaboração e de Coordenação, no montante de 8,6 milhões de euros, foram efetuados pagamentos em cerca de 5,6 milhões de euros, estando previsto, dentro de um prazo aceitável e tendo em conta as datas de receção dos comprovativos de despesa, o pagamento de 374 mil euros, faltando ainda a receção de faturas no valor de 26 mil euros. 6. A diferença entre os valores aprovados e pagos, corresponde a pedidos de prorrogação na execução dos investimentos, solicitados pelas próprias Juntas de Freguesia e, com compreensão, aprovados pelo Governo Regional. 7. Assim, no âmbito do novo Regime de Colaboração com o Poder Local, o Governo dos Açores não tem dívidas para com as Juntas de Freguesia dos Açores e mantém uma relação de respeito e previsibilidade com todas elas, reconhecendo que os seus objetivos são os mesmos que os do Governo dos Açores: responder às necessidades e anseios das populações dos Açores. 8. O XIV Governo Regional dos Açores prosseguirá a sua política de cooperação com o Poder Local, fundado no respeito pela sua autonomia e competências e de acordo com critérios de independência e transparência.
Nota de Imprensa
March 13, 2026 Regional Government secures €15.8 million in EU funding for agroforestry circular economy project The Government of the Azores, through the Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Food, will coordinate the LIFE IP AGRILOOP project, recently approved by the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA) under the LIFE-2024 call for proposals. This Strategic Integrated Project (SIP) – one of seven approved at a European level – represents an overall investment of €26.36 million and secures 60% co-financing from the European Union. This support measure takes the form of an injection of €15.82 million into the Region through the LIFE Programme, the European Union’s main instrument dedicated to the environment, nature and climate action. Having started on January 1, 2026 and with a total duration of 126 months (until 2036), the main mission of LIFE IP AGRILOOP is to support the implementation of the Roadmap for the Circular Economy in the Agroforestry Sector of the Autonomous Region of the Azores, aligning the archipelago with the European Green Deal. The work plan provides for the development of capacity-building initiatives, technology demonstrations, pilot projects and applied research. The aim is to promote more efficient and innovative practices, supporting the sector’s transition towards environmentally responsible models focused on the efficient management of resources. The project is coordinated by the Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Food, through the Agrarian Development Services, the Regional Directorate for Forest Resources and Spatial Planning, and the Regional Directorate for Agriculture, Veterinary and Food. The consortium also includes, as beneficiaries, IROA, S.A., IAMA, BIOAÇORES, KAIRÓS Cooperative and Serralharia do Outeiro. In addition, the Regional Directorate for the Environment and Climate Action and the Regional Directorate for Rural Development are participating in the initiative as associate partners. For the Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, LIFE IP AGRILOOP “is a decisive step towards establishing the Azores as a benchmark for sustainability in the agroforestry sector.” “This project reflects our commitment to innovation, efficiency and the circular economy, bringing together public entities and sector partners in a collective strategy to protect natural resources and boost the Region’s competitiveness,” stated the government official. The minister concluded by highlighting the initiative’s international reach: “We are proud to lead a project that places the Azores at the forefront of European environmental and climate policies.”
March 13, 2026 Regional Government secures €15.8 million in EU funding for agroforestry circular economy project The Government of the Azores, through the Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Food, will coordinate the LIFE IP AGRILOOP project, recently approved by the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA) under the LIFE-2024 call for proposals. This Strategic Integrated Project (SIP) – one of seven approved at a European level – represents an overall investment of €26.36 million and secures 60% co-financing from the European Union. This support measure takes the form of an injection of €15.82 million into the Region through the LIFE Programme, the European Union’s main instrument dedicated to the environment, nature and climate action. Having started on January 1, 2026 and with a total duration of 126 months (until 2036), the main mission of LIFE IP AGRILOOP is to support the implementation of the Roadmap for the Circular Economy in the Agroforestry Sector of the Autonomous Region of the Azores, aligning the archipelago with the European Green Deal. The work plan provides for the development of capacity-building initiatives, technology demonstrations, pilot projects and applied research. The aim is to promote more efficient and innovative practices, supporting the sector’s transition towards environmentally responsible models focused on the efficient management of resources. The project is coordinated by the Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Food, through the Agrarian Development Services, the Regional Directorate for Forest Resources and Spatial Planning, and the Regional Directorate for Agriculture, Veterinary and Food. The consortium also includes, as beneficiaries, IROA, S.A., IAMA, BIOAÇORES, KAIRÓS Cooperative and Serralharia do Outeiro. In addition, the Regional Directorate for the Environment and Climate Action and the Regional Directorate for Rural Development are participating in the initiative as associate partners. For the Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, LIFE IP AGRILOOP “is a decisive step towards establishing the Azores as a benchmark for sustainability in the agroforestry sector.” “This project reflects our commitment to innovation, efficiency and the circular economy, bringing together public entities and sector partners in a collective strategy to protect natural resources and boost the Region’s competitiveness,” stated the government official. The minister concluded by highlighting the initiative’s international reach: “We are proud to lead a project that places the Azores at the forefront of European environmental and climate policies.”
Nota de Imprensa
March 13, 2026 Corvo hosts Portuguese Biosphere Reserves Festival The Regional Secretary for the Environment and Climate Action, Alonso Miguel, chaired on Thursday the opening of the 4th edition of the Portuguese Biosphere Reserves Festival, which is taking place on the island of Corvo until March 29, highlighting the importance of this event in promoting sustainable regions and enhancing natural, cultural and human heritage. According to the government official, this event “has established itself as a benchmark in the promotion of sustainable territories and the enhancement of natural, cultural and human heritage at a national level.” “This fourth edition, held on the island of Corvo, takes on a particularly special significance, as it completes a cycle that began four years ago in the Azores with the aim of raising the profile of the Region’s four Biosphere Reserves,” he continued. “This festival has been a success in the Azores, with the first edition taking place on the island of Graciosa in 2023, followed by the Fajãs de São Jorge in 2024, and moving to Flores in 2025. It is now with particular enthusiasm that we welcome this fourth edition on the island of Corvo,” he said. Alonso Miguel recalled that “Corvo was recognised as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2007, making it, alongside Graciosa, the second oldest Biosphere Reserve in Portugal, emphasising that it is a small territory in size, but extraordinarily rich from a natural, cultural and social standpoint." “Corvo may be small in terms of land area, but it is vast in terms of the richness of its natural, cultural and social heritage,” he said, adding that “the island, covering just 17.1 km², boasts a rare scenic beauty, characterised by the grandeur of the Caldeirão and the concentration of ecosystems of significant ecological value.” The government official also highlighted the island’s strong cultural dimension and the local community’s ability to preserve unique traditions and cultural practices, noting that Corvo constitutes “one of the most striking examples of the harmonious coexistence between human beings and nature.” “This community has, over time, managed to withstand the hardships arising from extreme remoteness and adapt to each new challenge, ensuring a balance between conservation, cultural identity and sustainable development,” he emphasised. Alonso Miguel also pointed out that “the Biosphere Reserves Festival is not limited to the programme of the host island, but also features mirror events held in other Biosphere Reserves across the country, including those in the Azores, fostering the spirit of cooperation and networking.” In his speech, the Regional Secretary highlighted “the extraordinary natural heritage of the Azores and the international recognition the Region has been achieving, noting that four Azorean islands are classified as Biosphere Reserves.” The Regional Secretary also highlighted other significant achievements, such as “the designation of 41 areas under the Natura 2000 network, the designation of 13 Ramsar sites, the recognition of the Priolo Lands with the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism, the classification of the "Triangle" Islands (Faial, Pico and São Jorge) as a Bio-Region, and the inclusion of the Azores Geopark in the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network.” “In fact, the Azores are one of the few regions in the world designated as MIDAS – Multi-Internationally Designated Areas, which simultaneously encompass Ramsar sites, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Biosphere Reserves and UNESCO Global Geoparks,” he continued. Alonso Miguel highlighted the Azores’ certification as the world’s first archipelago classified as a Sustainable Tourism Destination by EarthCheck, which currently holds gold-level certification. “All these distinctions bolster a brand image of sustainability, which is increasingly sought after and valuable, representing an extraordinary tourism asset and a catalyst for the regional economic and social development,” he stated. However, the government official also highlighted the collective responsibility to protect and enhance this natural heritage. “All this heritage is as valuable as it is fragile, so we bear the huge responsibility, both collectively and individually, to ensure its protection and enhancement, in an ongoing process that demands constant reflection and adaptation to new challenges,” he emphasised. In this context, Alonso Miguel highlighted the work carried out by the Regional Government to preserve and enhance the natural heritage, notably through the creation of the Regional Network of Protected Areas, the Island Nature Parks, the Regional Network of Environmental Interpretation Centres, and the implementation of various land management tools. The government official also noted that “about 45% of the land area of Corvo Island is part of the Island Nature Park, highlighting the importance of preserving the local natural heritage, as well as the role of local communities in managing Biosphere Reserves." “Biosphere Reserves are dynamic areas with real communities, rich histories and extraordinary potential for sustainable development. Ultimately, the Biosphere Reserve is all of us,” he said. In this regard, he called on "all partners of the Corvo Biosphere Reserve, from the Municipal Council to the Regional Government services, public companies, local action groups and environmental NGOs, to remain committed to the management and promotion of this territory." “Over the coming days, the festival will feature a varied and participatory programme, including interpretive trails, sporting events, musical performances, film screenings, talks, environmental education initiatives aimed at children and young people, as well as a visit to the Flores Biosphere Reserve,” he explained. He concluded: “More than just a celebration, this festival aims to be a platform for dialogue, action and commitment to a model of sustainable development, helping to strengthen the communities’ sense of belonging to the Biosphere Reserves – a distinction that is a source of immense pride for all Azoreans.”
March 13, 2026 Corvo hosts Portuguese Biosphere Reserves Festival The Regional Secretary for the Environment and Climate Action, Alonso Miguel, chaired on Thursday the opening of the 4th edition of the Portuguese Biosphere Reserves Festival, which is taking place on the island of Corvo until March 29, highlighting the importance of this event in promoting sustainable regions and enhancing natural, cultural and human heritage. According to the government official, this event “has established itself as a benchmark in the promotion of sustainable territories and the enhancement of natural, cultural and human heritage at a national level.” “This fourth edition, held on the island of Corvo, takes on a particularly special significance, as it completes a cycle that began four years ago in the Azores with the aim of raising the profile of the Region’s four Biosphere Reserves,” he continued. “This festival has been a success in the Azores, with the first edition taking place on the island of Graciosa in 2023, followed by the Fajãs de São Jorge in 2024, and moving to Flores in 2025. It is now with particular enthusiasm that we welcome this fourth edition on the island of Corvo,” he said. Alonso Miguel recalled that “Corvo was recognised as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2007, making it, alongside Graciosa, the second oldest Biosphere Reserve in Portugal, emphasising that it is a small territory in size, but extraordinarily rich from a natural, cultural and social standpoint." “Corvo may be small in terms of land area, but it is vast in terms of the richness of its natural, cultural and social heritage,” he said, adding that “the island, covering just 17.1 km², boasts a rare scenic beauty, characterised by the grandeur of the Caldeirão and the concentration of ecosystems of significant ecological value.” The government official also highlighted the island’s strong cultural dimension and the local community’s ability to preserve unique traditions and cultural practices, noting that Corvo constitutes “one of the most striking examples of the harmonious coexistence between human beings and nature.” “This community has, over time, managed to withstand the hardships arising from extreme remoteness and adapt to each new challenge, ensuring a balance between conservation, cultural identity and sustainable development,” he emphasised. Alonso Miguel also pointed out that “the Biosphere Reserves Festival is not limited to the programme of the host island, but also features mirror events held in other Biosphere Reserves across the country, including those in the Azores, fostering the spirit of cooperation and networking.” In his speech, the Regional Secretary highlighted “the extraordinary natural heritage of the Azores and the international recognition the Region has been achieving, noting that four Azorean islands are classified as Biosphere Reserves.” The Regional Secretary also highlighted other significant achievements, such as “the designation of 41 areas under the Natura 2000 network, the designation of 13 Ramsar sites, the recognition of the Priolo Lands with the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism, the classification of the "Triangle" Islands (Faial, Pico and São Jorge) as a Bio-Region, and the inclusion of the Azores Geopark in the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network.” “In fact, the Azores are one of the few regions in the world designated as MIDAS – Multi-Internationally Designated Areas, which simultaneously encompass Ramsar sites, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Biosphere Reserves and UNESCO Global Geoparks,” he continued. Alonso Miguel highlighted the Azores’ certification as the world’s first archipelago classified as a Sustainable Tourism Destination by EarthCheck, which currently holds gold-level certification. “All these distinctions bolster a brand image of sustainability, which is increasingly sought after and valuable, representing an extraordinary tourism asset and a catalyst for the regional economic and social development,” he stated. However, the government official also highlighted the collective responsibility to protect and enhance this natural heritage. “All this heritage is as valuable as it is fragile, so we bear the huge responsibility, both collectively and individually, to ensure its protection and enhancement, in an ongoing process that demands constant reflection and adaptation to new challenges,” he emphasised. In this context, Alonso Miguel highlighted the work carried out by the Regional Government to preserve and enhance the natural heritage, notably through the creation of the Regional Network of Protected Areas, the Island Nature Parks, the Regional Network of Environmental Interpretation Centres, and the implementation of various land management tools. The government official also noted that “about 45% of the land area of Corvo Island is part of the Island Nature Park, highlighting the importance of preserving the local natural heritage, as well as the role of local communities in managing Biosphere Reserves." “Biosphere Reserves are dynamic areas with real communities, rich histories and extraordinary potential for sustainable development. Ultimately, the Biosphere Reserve is all of us,” he said. In this regard, he called on "all partners of the Corvo Biosphere Reserve, from the Municipal Council to the Regional Government services, public companies, local action groups and environmental NGOs, to remain committed to the management and promotion of this territory." “Over the coming days, the festival will feature a varied and participatory programme, including interpretive trails, sporting events, musical performances, film screenings, talks, environmental education initiatives aimed at children and young people, as well as a visit to the Flores Biosphere Reserve,” he explained. He concluded: “More than just a celebration, this festival aims to be a platform for dialogue, action and commitment to a model of sustainable development, helping to strengthen the communities’ sense of belonging to the Biosphere Reserves – a distinction that is a source of immense pride for all Azoreans.”
Nota de Imprensa
March 13, 2026 Azores strengthen leadership in energy transition with launch of European NESOI+ project, says Berta Cabral The Regional Secretary for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures stated in Ponta Delgada that energy transition is “absolutely central to the economic, environmental and social future of the Outermost Regions of the European Union,” emphasising that this challenge is not only for the future but also an urgent priority for the present. Berta Cabral spoke at the opening session of the seminar “Innovating for Decarbonisation: the Electricity System and Energy Communities in the Azores,” an initiative organised by the Regional Directorate for Energy as part of NESOI+ (New Energy Solutions Optimised for Island Outermost Regions). This is a European project funded by the LIFE Programme (2025–2028) to create a "one-stop shop" to support Energy Communities in the island territories of EU Outermost Regions. The government official emphasised that the current international geopolitical instability, marked by conflicts and volatility in the energy sector, makes it imperative to increasingly invest in renewable energy as a viable and sustainable alternative. According to the government official, the European Union’s actions in this area — although sometimes misunderstood — demonstrate essential leadership in promoting the structural economic transformation, while reducing dependence on fossil fuels and external suppliers. The Azores are following this path, she said, benefiting from their location, their local resources and a strategic vision geared towards a more prosperous and sustainable future. The Regional Secretary highlighted that the Region’s commitment to sustainability “is not merely rhetorical": it is reflected in public policies, structural investments and recognised international initiatives, such as the pioneering creation of the Azores Marine Protected Areas Network; and the certification of the Azores as a Gold-Level Sustainable Destination, an unprecedented achievement on a global scale for archipelago regions. The Azores’ participation in the NESOI+ project is part of this strategic vision. For the government official, NESOI+ represents much more than a European project. It is a genuine tool for energy self-sufficiency, innovation and the active involvement of local communities in energy production and management. Berta Cabral also pointed out that the Azores have historically been pioneers in the sector, particularly in geothermal energy, where the Region has been at the forefront; hydropower; the sustained expansion of wind and solar energy; landmark projects, such as the hybrid system on Graciosa; and recent programmes such as SOLENERGE, which place citizens and businesses at the heart of energy transition. The government official also highlighted the importance of the recent approval of the new configuration of the Azores Electricity System, which adapts the national and European framework to the archipelago’s unique situation, comprising nine isolated electricity systems. Among the advantages of the new model, she highlighted greater security of supply, tariff stability, regulatory predictability, a responsible approach to innovation and independent production, and the creation of conditions for the development of Renewable Energy Communities, whilst always ensuring territorial cohesion and consumer protection. The Regional Secretary also highlighted the transformative potential of energy communities, which promote decentralised energy production, greater energy literacy, self-consumption and the creation of local value. In an island region such as the Azores, these solutions can have a particularly significant impact, provided they have solid technical and regulatory foundations. The government official emphasised that this seminar is an opportunity for reflection, knowledge-sharing and the collective development of solutions, defending that energy transition must be technically sound, socially fair and a political priority. She also confirmed that the Government of the Azores remains committed to leading this process with responsibility, ambition and a long-term vision, ensuring that energy innovation contributes to environmental sustainability, economic competitiveness and the quality of life of the Azorean population.
March 13, 2026 Azores strengthen leadership in energy transition with launch of European NESOI+ project, says Berta Cabral The Regional Secretary for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures stated in Ponta Delgada that energy transition is “absolutely central to the economic, environmental and social future of the Outermost Regions of the European Union,” emphasising that this challenge is not only for the future but also an urgent priority for the present. Berta Cabral spoke at the opening session of the seminar “Innovating for Decarbonisation: the Electricity System and Energy Communities in the Azores,” an initiative organised by the Regional Directorate for Energy as part of NESOI+ (New Energy Solutions Optimised for Island Outermost Regions). This is a European project funded by the LIFE Programme (2025–2028) to create a "one-stop shop" to support Energy Communities in the island territories of EU Outermost Regions. The government official emphasised that the current international geopolitical instability, marked by conflicts and volatility in the energy sector, makes it imperative to increasingly invest in renewable energy as a viable and sustainable alternative. According to the government official, the European Union’s actions in this area — although sometimes misunderstood — demonstrate essential leadership in promoting the structural economic transformation, while reducing dependence on fossil fuels and external suppliers. The Azores are following this path, she said, benefiting from their location, their local resources and a strategic vision geared towards a more prosperous and sustainable future. The Regional Secretary highlighted that the Region’s commitment to sustainability “is not merely rhetorical": it is reflected in public policies, structural investments and recognised international initiatives, such as the pioneering creation of the Azores Marine Protected Areas Network; and the certification of the Azores as a Gold-Level Sustainable Destination, an unprecedented achievement on a global scale for archipelago regions. The Azores’ participation in the NESOI+ project is part of this strategic vision. For the government official, NESOI+ represents much more than a European project. It is a genuine tool for energy self-sufficiency, innovation and the active involvement of local communities in energy production and management. Berta Cabral also pointed out that the Azores have historically been pioneers in the sector, particularly in geothermal energy, where the Region has been at the forefront; hydropower; the sustained expansion of wind and solar energy; landmark projects, such as the hybrid system on Graciosa; and recent programmes such as SOLENERGE, which place citizens and businesses at the heart of energy transition. The government official also highlighted the importance of the recent approval of the new configuration of the Azores Electricity System, which adapts the national and European framework to the archipelago’s unique situation, comprising nine isolated electricity systems. Among the advantages of the new model, she highlighted greater security of supply, tariff stability, regulatory predictability, a responsible approach to innovation and independent production, and the creation of conditions for the development of Renewable Energy Communities, whilst always ensuring territorial cohesion and consumer protection. The Regional Secretary also highlighted the transformative potential of energy communities, which promote decentralised energy production, greater energy literacy, self-consumption and the creation of local value. In an island region such as the Azores, these solutions can have a particularly significant impact, provided they have solid technical and regulatory foundations. The government official emphasised that this seminar is an opportunity for reflection, knowledge-sharing and the collective development of solutions, defending that energy transition must be technically sound, socially fair and a political priority. She also confirmed that the Government of the Azores remains committed to leading this process with responsibility, ambition and a long-term vision, ensuring that energy innovation contributes to environmental sustainability, economic competitiveness and the quality of life of the Azorean population.
Nota de Imprensa
March 13, 2026 Regional Government launches €2 million tender for purchase of new vehicles for fire services The Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Action, through the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service (SRPCBA), has launched a new public tender, amounting to €2 million, for the purchase of another five emergency and assistance vehicles, intended to strengthen the operational capacity of regional fire brigades. The tender provides for the acquisition of three medium-sized emergency vehicles, to be allocated to the Fire Services of Ponta Delgada, Nordeste and Velas, and two heavy fire truck tankers to be used by the Fire Services of Flores and Madalena. This measure is part of the Regional Government’s strategy to strengthen and modernise the operational resources dedicated to protection and rescue in the Azores. As the Regional Secretary for the Environment and Climate Action, Alonso Miguel, emphasised, “the launch of this tender represents another step towards improving the resources available to Fire Services in the Azores.” According to the government official, this investment will “improve operational capacity, ensure a better response capability and enhance the effectiveness of rescue operations, whilst addressing the need to renew the vehicle fleet and meeting the Region’s operational requirements.” Alonso Miguel also pointed out that this initiative “is part of an ongoing effort to modernise equipment and vehicles, ensuring that resources are increasingly suited to the Region’s operational requirements.” “The Government of the Azores has been carrying out the renewal of the regional red and yellow fleet, an investment that now stands at €8 million in just four years, alongside the improvement of the pre-hospital emergency medical service.” He pointed out that this represents “an ongoing and structural investment in the operational capacity of regional fire services.” Regarding the safety and protection of frontline staff, the government official also highlighted the investment in Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), with €300,000 allocated to Self-contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) at the end of last year. For Alonso Miguel, “the protection of firefighters and the creation of better conditions for them to carry out their duties are also priorities for the Government of the Azores.” The Regional Secretary stated that “a series of structural investments will be implemented as early as the first half of this year to strengthen the operational capacity of Fire Services in the Azores.” Among these measures, Alonso Miguel highlighted that 17 tactical self-command vehicles will be delivered this March – one for each Fire Service in the Region – thereby strengthening the capacity for command and coordination of operations on the ground. “This is a very significant boost to operational command capacity, with a direct impact on the effectiveness of responses on the ground,” he said. Also planned for the first half of the year are the delivery of two new fire engines, 70 defibrillator monitors for emergency ambulances throughout the Region, and another 12 emergency ambulances, representing a significant boost to the regional pre-hospital emergency medical service. According to the government official, “these investments reflect a clear commitment to bolstering resources and improving the response provided to the population.” Meanwhile, construction is currently underway at the SRPCBA Training Centre on a high-rise training tower, designed to enhance the skills and operational readiness of Azorean firefighters. Alonso Miguel emphasised that “the training and development of operational staff are essential elements of a better-prepared and more effective civil protection service.” The Regional Secretary reiterated the Regional Government’s determination to continue investing in this area, noting that “about €60 million has been invested in the Regional Civil Protection System over the last five years." For Alonso Miguel, this is a path worth pursuing, as “it strengthens our response capacity, the effectiveness of our emergency services and the support provided to the Azorean population."
March 13, 2026 Regional Government launches €2 million tender for purchase of new vehicles for fire services The Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Action, through the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service (SRPCBA), has launched a new public tender, amounting to €2 million, for the purchase of another five emergency and assistance vehicles, intended to strengthen the operational capacity of regional fire brigades. The tender provides for the acquisition of three medium-sized emergency vehicles, to be allocated to the Fire Services of Ponta Delgada, Nordeste and Velas, and two heavy fire truck tankers to be used by the Fire Services of Flores and Madalena. This measure is part of the Regional Government’s strategy to strengthen and modernise the operational resources dedicated to protection and rescue in the Azores. As the Regional Secretary for the Environment and Climate Action, Alonso Miguel, emphasised, “the launch of this tender represents another step towards improving the resources available to Fire Services in the Azores.” According to the government official, this investment will “improve operational capacity, ensure a better response capability and enhance the effectiveness of rescue operations, whilst addressing the need to renew the vehicle fleet and meeting the Region’s operational requirements.” Alonso Miguel also pointed out that this initiative “is part of an ongoing effort to modernise equipment and vehicles, ensuring that resources are increasingly suited to the Region’s operational requirements.” “The Government of the Azores has been carrying out the renewal of the regional red and yellow fleet, an investment that now stands at €8 million in just four years, alongside the improvement of the pre-hospital emergency medical service.” He pointed out that this represents “an ongoing and structural investment in the operational capacity of regional fire services.” Regarding the safety and protection of frontline staff, the government official also highlighted the investment in Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), with €300,000 allocated to Self-contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) at the end of last year. For Alonso Miguel, “the protection of firefighters and the creation of better conditions for them to carry out their duties are also priorities for the Government of the Azores.” The Regional Secretary stated that “a series of structural investments will be implemented as early as the first half of this year to strengthen the operational capacity of Fire Services in the Azores.” Among these measures, Alonso Miguel highlighted that 17 tactical self-command vehicles will be delivered this March – one for each Fire Service in the Region – thereby strengthening the capacity for command and coordination of operations on the ground. “This is a very significant boost to operational command capacity, with a direct impact on the effectiveness of responses on the ground,” he said. Also planned for the first half of the year are the delivery of two new fire engines, 70 defibrillator monitors for emergency ambulances throughout the Region, and another 12 emergency ambulances, representing a significant boost to the regional pre-hospital emergency medical service. According to the government official, “these investments reflect a clear commitment to bolstering resources and improving the response provided to the population.” Meanwhile, construction is currently underway at the SRPCBA Training Centre on a high-rise training tower, designed to enhance the skills and operational readiness of Azorean firefighters. Alonso Miguel emphasised that “the training and development of operational staff are essential elements of a better-prepared and more effective civil protection service.” The Regional Secretary reiterated the Regional Government’s determination to continue investing in this area, noting that “about €60 million has been invested in the Regional Civil Protection System over the last five years." For Alonso Miguel, this is a path worth pursuing, as “it strengthens our response capacity, the effectiveness of our emergency services and the support provided to the Azorean population."
