New projects focused on the electrification and digitalisation of forestry were presented this week in Penamacor, highlighting how technology and innovation could help modernise forest management in rural Portugal.
The presentation took place during a session organised under the transForm Agenda, a PRR-backed initiative focused on digital transformation, resilience and carbon neutrality in Portugal’s forestry sector. The event brought together representatives from municipalities, forestry organisations, technology companies and research institutions.
According to organisers, the projects aim to support the transition towards smarter and more environmentally sustainable forestry management systems, particularly in low-density rural regions such as the Beira Interior.
Smart Technology Applied to Forestry
Several innovative technologies were demonstrated during the event in Penamacor, including:
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autonomous forest cleaning and firefighting robots
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electric-powered forestry machinery
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electric timber transport vehicles
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fully electric pruning tools
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forest management applications
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AI-powered monitoring systems
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5G-supported forestry technologies
One of the most notable solutions presented was Speed-e, a mobile voltage transformation station developed by REN. The system allows electricity from the national grid to be used directly in remote forestry operations, reducing dependence on fossil-fuel generators and supporting the charging of electric forestry equipment and vehicles.
An autonomous robot developed by ADAI (Association for the Development of Industrial Aerodynamics) was also demonstrated for vegetation management and firefighting support.
The Navigator Company presented fully electric pruning equipment designed to improve operational efficiency and reduce environmental impact in forestry activities.
Digitalisation and Wildfire Prevention
The projects also highlighted the growing use of artificial intelligence, computer vision and telemetry systems in forest management.
Companies and research institutions involved in the initiative demonstrated systems capable of:
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monitoring forestry operations in real time
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analysing timber volumes using AI
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improving supply-chain transparency
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supporting land management decisions
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identifying areas requiring intervention
Some technologies use drones, augmented reality and image-recognition systems to analyse forest conditions and support more efficient and sustainable management practices.
The use of digital tools in forestry is increasingly being viewed as an important strategy in reducing wildfire risks and improving resilience against climate-related challenges.
Importance for Rural Interior Regions
Forestry remains an important economic and environmental sector across much of the Beira Interior. However, the sector continues to face significant challenges linked to climate change, depopulation and recurring rural fires.
Projects linked to electrification and digitalisation are now being promoted as part of broader efforts to modernise rural industries, reduce carbon emissions and create safer, more efficient forestry operations.
For regions such as Penamacor and the wider Beira Baixa, investment in innovation and sustainable technologies may also help attract new opportunities and reinforce the role of the interior in Portugal’s green transition.
The event involved organisations including ForestWISE, REN, The Navigator Company, NOS, ADAI, INESC TEC and several forestry-sector partners participating in the transForm Agenda.
Sources
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https://www.beirabaixatv.pt/projetos-de-eletrificacao-e-digitalizacao-da-floresta-apresentados-em-penamacor
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https://www.ren.pt/en-gb/media/news/solutions-for-the-electrification-and-digitization-of-the-forestry-sector-presented-in-penamacor
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https://eu-cap-network.ec.europa.eu/projects/digital-tools-and-technology-systems-sustainable-management-mediterranean-forest-resources_fr