Spanish Government Approves Subsidy for Solar Project in Tenerife

Project Overview

• The Spanish government has approved a key subsidy of over 1.45 million euros for the Las Galletas Water Community in Tenerife.
• The project aims to install a photovoltaic system for self-consumption at the local desalination plant (EDAM).
• Funded through the EU's NextGenerationEU recovery mechanism.
• Goals include reducing the desalination station’s reliance on fossil fuels by generating over 59% of its electricity needs locally.
• The installation involves 3,360 bifacial solar panels on a degraded, abandoned embankment previously used as a water reservoir.
• It combines advanced battery storage systems.

Environmental Impact and Assessments

• Environmental assessments and consultations with local authorities, environmental groups, and heritage agencies confirm minimal impact.
• Despite concerns over archaeological and ecological features such as:
  • Ancient canal systems
  • Protected flora like the vulnerable Echium triste spp. nivariense
  • Nearby bird habitats
• Expert evaluations conclude that relevant structures lack significant cultural value, and proceeding with the project will not threaten nearby protected areas.

Environmental and Safety Measures

• A detailed set of environmental measures accompanies the project, including:
  • Dust and noise controls during construction
  • Wildlife protection protocols
  • Planning for the preservation of heritage elements
• The project's strategic location on a heavily modified site with low ecological and landscape value, plus its alignment with EU sustainability principles, led regulators to determine that a full impact assessment isn’t necessary.

Significance

• This initiative exemplifies Spain’s push towards greener energy and water self-sufficiency.
• It is pivotal for resilience against climate change and energy dependency.
• The approval underscores a commitment to environmentally responsible development in sensitive areas.