Enhancing Water Supply in Fuerteventura: A New Era of Sustainability
The Government of the Canary Islands, along with the Cabildo de Fuerteventura, is making significant strides to improve the island’s potable water supply system. With an investment exceeding five million euros, efforts are focused on modernizing critical hydraulic infrastructures and technical equipment, positioning the island for a more sustainable water management future.
Key Visits and Initiatives
Recently, Manuel Miranda, the Canary Island’s Minister of Territorial Policy, Territorial Cohesion, and Water, visited the facilities of the Fuerteventura Water Supply Consortium. He was joined by local leaders, including the island’s president, Lola García, and Water Councillor Adargoma Hernández. The meeting highlighted ongoing efforts and advancements in addressing Fuerteventura’s water challenges.
During the visit, Miranda emphasized the remarkable progress made to reverse the critical water emergency faced by the island in 2023. The concerted efforts of the Cabildo have successfully relieved the island from this emergency status in just two years, an achievement that speaks volumes about the effectiveness of coordinated action.
Comprehensive Improvements in Water Management
The financial backing from the regional government is intended to systematically update various components of the integral water cycle in Fuerteventura. This includes everything from seawater intake systems to pumping stations and desalination plants. The goal is not just to repair existing systems, but to create a robust and future-proof infrastructure capable of withstanding the challenges posed by climate change and increasing water demand.
In December 2024, the grant for this significant project was awarded, and throughout 2025, the Cabildo proceeded with the bidding process for material supplies. This timely acquisition ensures that essential resources are readily available for the Insular Water Council, allowing for immediate responses to potential system failures and the maintenance of hydraulic infrastructures.
Enhancing Desalination Capabilities
New equipment will progressively be integrated into desalination centers located in Puerto del Rosario, Gran Tarajal, and Corralejo, as well as into the distribution network’s pumping stations. Among the planned upgrades is a gradual replacement of the reverse osmosis membranes, a move designed to enhance the quality of the desalinated water and boost production capacity to meet growing demands.
Additionally, the project outlines the renewal of electrical panels and special components essential for desalination plants and pumping stations. These upgrades are critical in ensuring that Fuerteventura can manage its water resources efficiently and sustainably.
A Collaborative Approach
Miranda recognized the vital collaboration between administrations as key in tackling the water crisis stemming from prolonged drought and years of outdated infrastructure. However, he also stressed the importance of continued effort in securing water supplies for the coming decades. This includes ongoing initiatives with the Cabildo to develop a new desalination plant in the southern region of the island.
Lola García echoed this sentiment, noting that improving water supply goes beyond just building new hydraulic infrastructures. It also involves strengthening technical resources and supporting the dedicated workforce at the Fuerteventura Water Supply Consortium (CAAF). This holistic approach ensures that technological upgrades are matched by enhanced capabilities of the personnel responsible for managing these systems.
Commitment to the Future
Adargoma Hernández expressed gratitude for the ongoing coordination with the Government of the Canary Islands, emphasizing that these investments are pivotal for enhancing water supply in Fuerteventura. This collaborative spirit embodies a broader strategy for sustainable water management, aiming not only to address immediate challenges but also to set a foundation for a resilient future.
Through these initiatives, Fuerteventura is moving towards a more sustainable water management model, ensuring that its residents have access to reliable and high-quality water.
