Loulé, Portugal – Portugal's Minister of Environment and Energy, Maria da Graça Carvalho, will visit Loulé on Friday to inaugurate a groundbreaking solar plant in the popular tourist destination of Vilamoura.

The minister's itinerary includes a visit to Loulé's town hall to learn about the municipality's climate action initiatives, including conservation efforts in the Foz do Almargem and Trafal Local Nature Reserve. She will also tour Loulé's municipal market and the Geoparque Algarvensis store, a collaborative project showcasing the unique natural heritage of the Algarve region.

Later in the day, Minister Carvalho will visit the Arcaya residential development in Quarteira, a sustainable condominium known for its energy-efficient design.

The highlight of the visit will be the inauguration of the innovative solar plant at the Praia da Marina Pumping Station. Equipped with 358 double-sided solar panels, this cutting-edge system harnesses solar radiation from both sides, significantly increasing energy production efficiency compared to traditional solar panels. With an annual capacity of 200 kW, the plant will power the wastewater pumping station, reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources and contributing to a more sustainable future for Vilamoura.

This visit underscores the Portuguese government's commitment to promoting renewable energy and sustainable development across the country.