In the long-term, EDP regards climate change as a challenge and an opportunity to put into action its strategy, which combines a lower risk profile (in comparison with the electrical sector) with a higher growth rate. Thus, the focus is on:
1. EDP's consolidation as a top worldwide player in wind energy - driven by growth through regional platforms, focused on regions with stable regulatory frameworks and based in a wind energy pipeline supported with a diversified portfolio of wind turbine suppliers;
2. The growth of installed hydroelectric capacity with a forecasted increase of approximately 45% in the Iberian market by 2015 and the increase in installed hydroelectric capacity in Brazil;
3. The improved thermal efficiency of our thermoelectric power plants, through the increased use of cleaner generation processes, by means of CCGT power stations, the decommissioning of fuel oil and diesel power stations and the keep up-to-date with developments in clean coal technology, including capturing and sequestering carbon. Moreover, there has been a considerable investment in improving the quality of atmospheric emissions from our power stations through the reduction of NOx and SOx gases.
4. Promotion of energy efficiency enhancement measures through the development of initiatives to reduce technical electricity distribution losses and to increase the more efficient end use of energy in various sectors of business activity;
5. Fostering micro-generation and energy services;
6. Proactive management of our CO2 licence requirements: through investment in carbon funds, development of CDM (clean development mechanisms envisaged in the Kyoto Protocol) and, if necessary, purchase of additional emissions licences;
7. Innovation, following and participating in the development of R&D projects in a variety of areas, such as wave energy, solar energy, CO2 capture or micro-generation.
The strategy for fighting climate change requires the implementation of emission reduction through external measures and within the business.