In the second seminar of CERENA's seminar series 2026-2027, we will receive João de Jesus Ferreira.

This seminar will analyze the evolution of energy consumption in Portugal, framing it in the broader transformation of the energy system, both at the national and European levels. There will be a focus on the expected growth of electricity demand as a result of the electrification of the transport network, climatization, industrial processes, as well as other uses currently dependent on fossil fuels. This evolution will be analyzed considering the current structure of the electricity producer capacity of the Portuguese system, which is characterized by an elevated participation of renewable energy sources and a progressive diminishing of classical thermal production. The presentation will focus on the distinction between energy produced and effectively available potency, analyzing the challenges resulting from variable wind and solar energy, storage, and the interconnection between the electric network and system services. The effects of electrification concerning consumption, safety of supply, and the investments supported by the consumers will also be discussed. The seminar will conclude with a reflection on the need for a true energetic national plan, based on scenarios technically consistent with the demand, production capacity, storage, and other total costs of the system, considering the safety of the supply, economic competitiveness, and environmental goals.