Researcher of the IDL Creates the Energy Atlas of Madeira

Rui Caldeira, researcher of the Instituto Dom Luiz (IDL) and director of the Observatório Oceânico da Madeira (OOM) was on the 90 segundos de ciência program talking about his recent work to create the energy atlas for the autonomous region of Madeira. In this work it was calculated the energy potential that comes from exposure to solar radiation not only in the islands that constitute the archipelago but also in the sea. The wind potential of Madeira was also calculated as this region is exposed to elisian winds. These studies show that some areas have interesting results regarding the use of offshore wind energy. However, Rui Caldeira reinforces the need to evaluate whether this energy is sustainable over time in order to ensure that installation of production equipment is profitable.

This research points to the island platform north of Porto Santo as a good area for the installation of offshore wind turbines. This area can be harnessed not only relative to wind but also to marine waves and currents.

You can hear the episode of the 90 segundos de ciência program here.