In Portugal, a partnership with a great past turns toward the future.
For 35 years, EDP remained connected to the local communities and its workforce in Sines. At the moment of the Sines Power plant's closure, it became a priority to keep this connection alive. It was with that purpose that EDP created the “SAF - Sines’ Active Future” project. This includes several initiatives - among which there is the GLES or NAU- intended on contributing to the local economy’s future, the workforce generation and the ongoing regional development.
The connection between EDP and Sines
On April 14th, 2021, the Sines’ Power plant shut its doors. After 35 years, it was time to put an end to the operations ran in the coal power plant. Sines’ Power plant, besides being the largest thermoelectric power plant in Portugal, was also one of the main strategic points for energy supply. Its role and contribution to the safety of the national electric system are undeniable. However, its commitment to decarbonizing and energy transition and the growing focus on the production of renewable energies dictated its ending.
The last straw of Sines’ Power plant did not translate into a goodbye from EDP to the region. The connection goes further than our activity, spreading throughout the actual community and local economy. But how do you give back three and a half decades worth of history? By contributing to the future of the population and future generations, by investing in its development.
EDP’s legacy for the region
The creation of “SAF - Sines’ Active Future”, marks EDP’s legacy for Sines. The project intends on being one of the engines for the economy and employment conversion through the creation of initiatives connected to the generation of new jobs, company incubation, and training opportunities. The “SAF - Sines’ Active Future” is made by two work forefronts, organized with the support of local partnerships. The first work forefront is focused on a prospective study of the local economy, executed by Évora’s University and by the Superior Technical Institute. The objective is to evaluate and identify opportunities for social and economic development.
The second work forefront is represented by GLES (“Gabinete Local de Encaminhamento Social” or Local Office for Social Referral), created in partnership with the Sines city council and with Institute for Employment and Vocational Training. Their purpose is to support workers from Sine's city council and their families in what concerns new job opportunities. After that, the intention is to encompass the rest of the population in the area. GLES, is also a fertile ground for other initiatives of the “Sines’ Active Future” Project, like NAU, an incubator for local business companies.
