Let's learn from Portugal's renewable energy policy | Syma Tariq | Comment is free | guardian.co.uk

Let's learn from Portugal's renewable energy policy | Syma Tariq | Comment is free | guardian.co.uk

Portugal is a country that many had written off as the European debt crisis hit. But, like its joined-up thinking on drug policy, Portugal's energy solutions have come about by applying intellectual resources to produce a realistic and smart energy grid that will, hopefully, see financial benefits too.

The UK coastline stretches for 11,073 miles, compared with Portugal's 1,114 – giving it ample space to explore offshore wind and hydropower, backed up by its already existing fossil fuel generation. Though it is taking steps towards producing more clean electricity, the government's impending public sector cuts mean many vital projects, incentives and green jobs are at serious risk.

Portugal's next target is 60% renewable energy by 2020 – with its track record, this goal should be plain sailing.