Minister of Environment and Energy Maria da Graça Carvalho has dismissed the possibility of investing in nuclear energy (energia nuclear), despite new European Union funding for the sector. Carvalho argued that Portugal should remain focused on its high potential for renewable energy (energias renováveis) like solar and wind. Residents should note that while other European nations seek nuclear solutions, Portugal will prioritize its existing green energy strategy.
Government rules out nuclear energy investment for Portugal
Tuesday, 10 March 2026AI summary
Context & Explainers
- Minister of Environment and Energy (2024–present)
- Party: Social Democratic Party (PSD), Partido Social Democrata
- Background: Mechanical engineer, academic, former MEP
Maria da Graça Carvalho (born 1955) is a Portuguese engineer and politician serving as Minister of Environment and Energy in the AD government. She holds a PhD in mechanical engineering and had a distinguished academic career at Instituto Superior Técnico, specializing in energy systems and building physics.
She served as a Member of the European Parliament (2009–2024), where she focused on research policy, innovation funding (Horizon 2020/Europe), and energy policy. Before entering politics, she was a scientific advisor to European Commission President José Manuel Barroso.
As Environment Minister, she oversees Portugal's energy transition, renewable energy expansion, water resources management, climate adaptation, and environmental regulation — portfolios that are central to issues like wildfire prevention, coastal erosion, and meeting EU climate targets.
