07-04-2025
Research from NOVA FCT once again takes a prominent role in the debate on sustainability and energy policies. On March 28, the Portuguese Parliament hosted the final plenary session of the Citizens’ Committees project, an innovative program launched in March 2024 to promote Participatory Democracy.
Among the 230 independent citizens selected to join the 13 thematic Committees was Miguel Macias Sequeira, a researcher at CENSE, NOVA FCT, and a member of the 11th Committee – Environment and Energy. Over several months, participants developed 49 proposals, which were subject to public consultation before the final plenary vote.
Miguel Macias Sequeira’s proposal, titled "Observe, Inform, Facilitate and Support – Measures to Democratize and Accelerate Self-Consumption and Renewable Energy Communities", was one of those approved. Its goal is to promote the decentralization of renewable energy production by facilitating self-consumption in buildings and the development of renewable energy communities.
With this approval, the proposal will now be submitted to the Government after the legislative elections, with the aim of influencing public policy in the field of sustainable energy.
The participation of the NOVA FCT researcher in this project demonstrates the academic community’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and civic engagement, reinforcing the role of science in building concrete solutions to society’s challenges.
Miguel Macias Sequeira during one of his interventions at the Citizens’ Committee.
