Electricity Museum – House of Light

In 1997 , the Museu da Electricidade – Casa da Luz (Electricity Museum - House of Light) opened its doors in Funchal , very near to the Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers Market) , an obligatory reference point for tourists. This museum centre was created to mark the centenary of the introduction of electricity in the lives of the Madeirans and has hosted numerous initiatives since then.

The Electricity Company in Madeira was in charge of opening the museum, as well as being responsible for the production, transport and distribution of electricity in the archipelago. They also own a vast collection of paraphernalia that allows the visitor to learn about the whole process of how electricity was introduced in Madeira.

In addition to written and iconographic representations of the evolution of electricity , the Museum - located in the former premises of a thermal power plant - is an interactive venue of information and communication about the technology, primarily aimed at young people and schools.

On the first floor, you will find the exhibition ' Energy Sources - primary and renewable ' equipped with models of wind and solar energy and an interactive area about the production, transport and distribution of electricity.

The place has computers with "software" which is appropriate to the theme, a virtual reality helmet, plasma ball, Faraday cage, fibre optic and multimedia kiosk , where you can explore the Museum’s CD Rom.

The Temporary Exhibitions zone is very well equipped and has already been used by many plastic artists. It also allows for exhibitions that promote the culture in the region.

The Museum also has an auditorium with a capacity for 148 people and is equipped with the latest audiovisual equipment.