Canary Islands' Emergency Power Plant Approval

Project Overview

The Canary Islands' Ministry of Ecological Transition and Energy has approved the installation of a temporary 14.8 MW emergency power plant called Planta Mezque in Puerto del Rosario, Fuerteventura.

• Developed by Disa Generation
• Purpose: to bolster electricity supply amidst grid demand concerns on the islands of Gran Canaria, Tenerife, and the Canary archipelago’s non-mainland territories.

Project Details

• The project involves installing eight gas-powered engines run on propano.
• Associated infrastructure includes depots, a substation, and underground power lines.
• Location: within a 13,800-square-meter site in a heavily altered, industrialized zone.
• Operation plan: initial three-year period with renewal possibilities.

Environmental Assessments and Impact Management

Extensive environmental assessments have been conducted, showing the project’s impacts—such as air emissions, noise, visual footprint, and risk of accidents—are manageable under strict control and mitigation measures.

• Notably, nitrogen oxides (NO2) emissions may briefly exceed legal limits but are limited to areas without population.
• Additional measures include careful site selection, environmental monitoring, and safeguards for flora, fauna, and cultural heritage.

Approval Emphasis and Concerns

• Emphasis on controlling emissions, safeguarding biodiversity, and ensuring safety.
• Close proximity to residential and industrial areas, as well as sensitive airspace, requires strict oversight.

Context and Significance

• Reflects the Islands' urgent need for reliable energy.
• Highlights the transition challenges faced by insular renewable energy integration.

Key Points

• Temporary backup capacity for 3 years
• Focus on environmental management and safety
• Part of broader energy emergency response