Portugal joins the global top 10 in clean energy transition

Portugal has secured a place among the world’s top 10 countries in the clean energy transition, according to the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Fostering Effective Energy Transition 2025 report.

Ranked tenth out of 118 nations, Portugal now stands alongside leaders such as Germany, Finland, Sweden, and Denmark—marking a significant milestone for a country that once lagged far behind in energy development.

The WEF index measures countries across three main pillars: energy security, sustainability, and equity, as well as their readiness in terms of infrastructure, innovation, and political commitment.

Portugal’s consistent progress in renewable energy generation and ambitious long-term targets helped propel it into the upper ranks of this year’s index.

In recent years, Portugal has transformed its energy landscape. In 2023, roughly 61% of the country’s electricity consumption came from renewable sources, primarily hydropower and wind, with solar playing an increasingly important role.

By July 2025, renewables accounted for more than 70% of electricity generated in mainland Portugal. This rapid expansion has been supported by steady investment in wind farms, solar parks, and grid infrastructure, making clean energy the backbone of the national power system.

Looking ahead, Portugal has set one of Europe’s most ambitious renewable energy goals: by 2030, the government plans for 93% of electricity consumption to be supplied by renewables.

Portugal is actively encouraging investment in sustainable energy, and one of the most notable pathways has been through the Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme.

Through the Portugal Golden Visa, investors can commit €500,000 to eligible alternative investment funds—several of which channel capital into renewable energy initiatives and other clean technologies. This provides a gateway to both impactful investment and European residency.

The programme grants residency rights in Portugal, along with visa-free access to 29 Schengen countries, while requiring a physical stay of just seven days per year.

After five years, investors become eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship.

Beyond renewable energy, some of Portugal’s alternative investment funds take a diversified approach, allocating across sectors where the country shows strong growth potential.

This strategy appeals to investors looking for stability alongside exposure to high-growth opportunities, reducing the risks of concentrating on a single sector.

Paul Sheedy, special advisor at the Portugal Future Fund, an alternative investment fund approved for Golden Visa residency-by-investment in Portugal, said: “A multi-sector approach to investment—spanning sectors such as luxury hospitality and tourism, renewable energy, media, healthcare, and technology —not only aligns with Portugal's dynamic economic landscape but also creates a resilient portfolio that thrives across sectors.

“We have seen time and time again that a blended investment approach can protect against underperforming sectors in a portfolio, giving investors more security and downside protection.”

Installed renewable capacity is expected to exceed 42 gigawatts, with significant growth in solar and offshore wind. The government has already allocated over 2,000 square kilometres of maritime space for offshore wind projects, targeting up to 10 gigawatts of installed capacity.

Hydrogen is also a central part of the strategy, with major projects under development in Sines and the Algarve aimed at producing green hydrogen and ammonia for both domestic and industrial use.

The recognition from the World Economic Forum not only highlights Portugal’s environmental achievements but also strengthens its position as a destination for clean-tech investment.

Multinationals have been increasingly attracted to the country’s stable renewable energy sector, while Portuguese engineers and researchers are establishing themselves as innovators in offshore wind, floating wind platforms, and hybrid energy systems that combine wind and hydropower for greater stability.

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To learn more about Golden Visa funds investing in renewable energy, contact Portugal Pathways.

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About Portugal Pathways

Portugal Pathways has supported hundreds of Golden Visa residency-by-investment applications and provides expert guidance through its professional supply chain network on luxury property, wealth management, and tax optimisation, including post-NHR tax regime planning, as well as private healthcare, IFICI tax incentive applications, money transfers and bespoke relocation solutions to enhance life and investments in Portugal.

About Portugal Investment Owners Club

The Portugal Investment Owners Club, or P Club for short, is a unique investor membership community designed for discerning individuals, families, and organisations committed to exploring and capitalising on life in Portugal and enjoying money-can't-buy experiences and exclusive events.

About Portugal Future Fund

The Portugal Future Fund strategically invests in key sectors, driving growth and innovation across Portugal. Approved for Portugal’s Golden Visa residency-by-investment, it offers a unique opportunity for impactful and rewarding participation.

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Disclaimer: The information on the Portugal Pathways and Portugal Investment Owners Club (P Club for short) websites and in email communications is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, or financial advice. You should consult and check with a qualified professional advisor before relying on any information provided on this website or in email communications. As it relates to investments in Golden Visas or other wealth management solutions offered by regulated and professional advisors, it is important to note that past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Private equities can be highly illiquid and come with risk and should always be under professional independent advice. Golden Visa investments need to be held for 6 to 7 years to allow for permanent citizenship/passport in the EU.

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