Energy transition is essential to mitigate the effects of climate change and alleviate energy poverty in which more than 34 million Europeans find themselves. The European Commission has highlighted the importance of actively involving citizens in these issues.
Several initiatives have been implemented by CENSE, the research center of FCT NOVA, to overcome barriers and support Portuguese citizens in those energy transition issues. The green renovation is an online platform that brings together all the information necessary for the sustainable renovation of different typologies of housing, including technical aspects, financial support and regulation.
Recognizing that part of the population still does not easily use digital tools, the Transition Point was launched as a pilot project to combat energy poverty. A maritime container was restored and adapted to engage citizens, with proximity advice provided by experts to improve the energy performance and thermal comfort of the dwellings and to compete for financial support. The container has been placed at public squares in the city of Setúbal, and others will follow, as well as the FCT NOVA campus.