Environmental Impact Review for Los Giles Photovoltaic Solar Plant

Overview

The Spanish government has concluded that the Los Giles photovoltaic solar plant proposed by Iberdrola Renovables Canarias in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria requires a full environmental impact review.

Despite its relatively small size—about 6.58 hectares—the project’s location near ecologically sensitive areas and habitats of threatened birds, such as the vulnerable endemic alcaraván common, raises concerns.

Key Environmental Concerns

• Potential impacts during construction include:
  • Noise
  • Dust
  • Disturbances to local fauna, notably bird species and habitats of community interest.
• Additional concerns include:
  • Effects on cultural heritage sites
  • Biodiversity
  • Landscape values

Review and Input

Environmental authorities have reviewed input from various public bodies, including health, water, and heritage agencies.

Some agencies emphasized the need for detailed archaeological surveys and protection measures for local wildlife.

The project’s proximity to protected natural zones and its location on an agricultural, land-use-sensitive site further complicate its approval.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Given these factors, the evaluation advocates for a thorough impact assessment, recognizing the project’s potential for significant environmental effects.

• The project must undergo an ordinary, comprehensive impact evaluation before proceeding.
• The final decision, expected soon, will weigh the renewable energy benefits against the ecological and cultural sensitivities of this environmentally valuable area.