Canary Islands Emergency Power Plant Approval

Project Details

• The Canary Islands government has officially approved the construction of a new 14.8 MW emergency power plant in Puerto del Rosario, Fuerteventura.
• This project is promoted by Disa Generación.
• The installation involves:
  • Installing eight gas-powered generators.
  • Connecting them to the local grid through a substation.
  • Supporting infrastructure includes two large propane tanks.
  • A 1,000 m³ storage sphere will also support the plant’s operation.

Context and Reasons for Approval

• The decision comes amid urgent energy needs.
• Local authorities emphasize the project’s role in ensuring a reliable electricity supply.
• The installation previously faced no direct restrictions in local planning laws since it is situated on land designated for general interest infrastructure, not protected environmental or agricultural areas.

"The project is crucial for maintaining energy security during this period of crisis," said a government official.

Regulatory and Planning Considerations

• Owing to the critical energy shortage and the declaration of a state of emergency in the region, the government has bypassed some typical planning procedures to expedite approval.
• A decree mandates simultaneous adjustments in territorial planning.
• The goal is to quickly accommodate the project and ensure energy security measures are implemented promptly.

Strategic Goals

• This move underscores a focus on rapid energy resilience in Fuerteventura.
• Aims to boost the island’s electricity capacity during a period of increased risk of shortages.
• Reflects a strategic shift towards faster response measures to meet urgent energy demands in the Canary Islands.