The energy transition is one of the defining challenges of our time. Yet, communicating its importance to citizens who are not directly engaged with energy or climate topics remains a significant challenge.
At WeGenerate, one of our goals is to make complex issues surrounding the energy transition accessible, relevant and engaging for local communities. Beyond raising awareness, we aim to empower citizens with the knowledge and tools needed to actively contribute to a more sustainable future.
With this objective in mind, on 27 May, Nova SBE Environmental Economics Knowledge Center and the Laboratório Nacional de Energia e Geologia (LNEG) organised a community workshop at the Associação de Bem-Estar Social de Alcabideche, focused on the benefits and practical applications of solar energy.
The session combined discussion and experimentation. Participants explored the role of solar energy in reducing dependence on fossil fuels and mitigating environmental impacts, while learning how renewable energy can be integrated into everyday life.
The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the practical component: cooking with the sun.
Led by David Loureiro and Susana Viana from LNEG, alongside Margarida Ortigão and Rita Tapadinhas from Nova SBE Environmental Economics Knowledge Center, participants built their own solar ovens using reused and recyclable materials, including cardboard, cork stoppers and aluminium foil.
To demonstrate the potential of solar cooking technologies, David Loureiro brought five commercial solar ovens capable of reaching temperatures of up to 120°C. Throughout the day, participants prepared pizzas, cakes, cookies and even coffee using only solar energy. In parallel, two homemade solar ovens built during the workshop successfully reached temperatures of around 70°C.
By transforming solar energy into something tangible, practical and enjoyable, the workshop provided a memorable learning experience and demonstrated how energy literacy can be fostered through direct engagement.
Initiatives such as this highlight the importance of participatory and community-based approaches to the energy transition, helping ensure that citizens are not only informed about sustainability challenges but are also actively involved in shaping solutions.