Lisbon, April 7, 2026 (Lusa) - Portugal's government wants to assess the potential of abandoned and degraded mining areas for renewable energy projects and has ordered a technical study which is expected to be completed within four months.

The environment and energy ministry said on Monday the study will evaluate solar and wind power potential and storage in these areas.

This promotes environmental rehabilitation and avoids pressure on agricultural, forest and ecologically sensitive land. Environment and Energy Minister Maria da Graça Carvalho described the plan as "transforming environmental liabilities into strategic assets".

"These areas, often marked by environmental liabilities and use limitations, represent an opportunity for clean energy projects because they are developed areas, avoiding the use of land with higher agricultural, forestry or ecological value," the ministry statement said.

The National Laboratory of Energy and Geology (LNEG), a state research body, and the Mining Development Company (EDM), a state firm for mine rehabilitation, will conduct the study. The work includes identifying areas, evaluating different technologies, and analysing power grid connections.

The study could also identify areas suitable for self-consumption by energy-intensive companies or for creating renewable energy communities.

"This work will identify concrete solutions to transform degraded areas into clean energy production hubs, promoting environmental requalification and creating new economic opportunities for these areas," the minister said.

FP/LYT // AYLS

Lusa