Central Geotérmica do Pico Vermelho, Geothermal power plant in São Miguel, Azores.
Central Geotérmica do Pico Vermelho is a geothermal power plant on São Miguel island that converts steam from deep underground reservoirs into electricity. The facility combines wells, pipes, and a turbine building where hot steam from Earth's interior powers the generators.
The facility began operating in 2007, marking a major shift toward harnessing the islands natural heat resources for power generation. This development emerged from regional initiatives to reduce the Azores reliance on imported energy sources.
The power plant represents a shift in the Azorean energy landscape, demonstrating the integration of natural resources into local infrastructure development.
The location sits on São Miguel island in a relatively rural area with limited nearby settlements. Visitors should understand this is an active industrial facility, so public access may be restricted.
The facility supplies 37 percent of São Miguel island's electrical needs through geothermal energy, reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.
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