Modelos cooperativos e sustentabilidade energética

: o caso da Coopérnico

Abstract

In recent years, sustainability has emerged as an increasingly pressing global concern, driving the adoption of more conscious and responsible development practices and models aimed at mitigating current socio-environmental and economic impacts. Within this context, cooperatives have arisen as promising organizations, capable of integrating the pillars of sustainability by aligning economic efficiency with the promotion of social well-being and environmental preservation, thereby contributing to a fairer society with improved living conditions. This dissertation aims to understand how such entities promote sustainable consumption practices and contribute to the achievement of the goals defined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy. To this end, a qualitative, exploratory methodological approach was adopted, with data collected through semi- structured interviews and focus group with a total of seven employees of the energy cooperative Coopérnico. The findings revealed that this business model is becoming increasingly prominent, shows high potential and offers relevant opportunities. Nevertheless, several challenges and structural barriers remain, which continue to constrain its scope of action. This research highlights the role of cooperatives as key agents in the construction of a more sustainable, efficient and equitable future, in alignment with the objectives set forth in the 2030 Agenda.

Date of Award	5 Nov 2025
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Sandra Lima Coelho (Supervisor) & Cláudia Carvalho Amador (Co-Supervisor)