The Autonomous Region of Madeira has introduced new legislation to regulate the self-consumption of renewable energy. Regional Legislative Decree No. 9/2026/M is already in force and adapts the national and European legal regime to the island’s reality. It sets mandatory procedures for approving new projects and strengthens inspection measures. The law comes after rapid growth in the sector, with production units for self-consumption (UPAC) rising from 27 in 2020 to more than 3,200 installations in 2026. Over the same period, total installed power increased from 1.72 MW to 27.67 MW, making tighter regulation necessary to protect the regional electricity grid. The decree also introduces different procedures depending on power level, adds prior inspection for all installations above 6.9 kVA, and expands the permitted distance between production units and consumption points to four kilometers in low voltage and 40 kilometers in medium and high voltage. Civil liability insurance is now required for UPAC holders, with proof due by the 31st of January each year, and the rules for collective self-consumption and energy communities have also been clarified. Those interested can register through serupac@madeira.gov.pt, while collective self-consumption records are handled at serac@madeira.gov.pt.
