Official Resolution Approving the Impact Assessment and Environmental Authorization for the El Porís Electrical Substation and Transmission Lines Project in Tenerife
Environmental Viability Confirmation for El Porís Electrical Infrastructure Project
Overview
On June 4, 2026, the Canary Islands government released a detailed resolution confirming the environmental viability of the El Porís electrical infrastructure project in Tenerife.
The project, promoted by Red Eléctrica de España, involves:
- the construction and operation of a new 220/66 kV substation
- interconnecting lines
- reconfiguration of existing circuits
Although the main components have already been completed and operational since September 2019, recent judicial rulings mandated a full 'ordinary impact assessment' due to concerns over impacts on protected species and habitats.
Environmental Review Findings
The comprehensive environmental review verifies that:
- the installed infrastructure largely respects territorial planning, protected natural spaces, and cultural heritage.
- impacts on soil, vegetation, fauna (notably bird species like the endangered alcaraván and vulnerable pardela cenicienta), landscape, and local communities are minor, temporary, and effectively mitigated through measures like revegetation, signage, and habitat protection.
Monitoring and Mitigation Measures
The resolution emphasizes the need for ongoing monitoring, particularly regarding bird mortality caused by collisions.
Specific measures include:
- advanced bird deterrents
- continuous tracking of affected species
These measures are set to be enforced over a minimum five-year period.
Conclusions and Conditions
The resolution confirms:
- no significant cumulative or synergetic adverse effects with other regional infrastructures or renewable energy projects.
It includes conditions for:
- future maintenance
- habitat restoration
- detailed impact mitigation plans
The focus remains on protecting sensitive species and landscape values.
This decision underscores the importance of rigorous environmental compliance in critical energy infrastructure, ensuring ecological and social considerations are upheld in the ongoing operation and potential future expansions of the system.