Tres Grupos Descentralizados en La Hondura, Zurita y Tuineje
The energy landscape of the Canary Islands, particularly in the area of Puerto del Rosario, is on the brink of a transformative change. The recent announcement regarding the establishment of three decentralized generation groups in La Hondura, Zurita, and Tuineje marks a significant achievement for local authorities after a lengthy hiatus of 13 years without a public competition for energy production. The advisor emphasized that this development is no small feat, highlighting that “nobody believed it could happen.” For over a decade, the community has experienced stagnation, lacking both competition and investment in the local energy sector.
With the completion of the long-winded procedures and the dismantling of the old power plant, residents can finally look forward to the implementation of three new production centers. This new decentralized model promises operations spread across different areas of the island, ensuring a more localized approach to energy generation. The advisor did clarify one major concern, stating that “none of these groups will be installed in El Charco,” which has been a source of anxiety for the local residents regarding the future of their neighborhood. Instead, the dismantlement provides an opportunity to reclaim significant urban space.
40% Less Pollution
As for the timelines, the advisor pointed out that the transition is not a swift journey; rather, it’s a complex initiative that will roll out over the next four to six years. This is substantially shorter than the over thirty-year wait experienced by the community. The new energy groups, expected to cut pollution by 40% compared to existing facilities, will run on gas. This choice of fuel is argued to facilitate a cleaner transition within the island’s energy system.
Moreover, the advisor stressed that this new model will not impede the ongoing efforts to develop renewable energy sources. It is part of a necessary transition towards a more sustainable energy future. “We need to continue advancing in the planning of renewable energies,” he affirmed, emphasizing the need for the energy system to evolve towards a greater reliance on sustainable sources.
Thirteen Years Without Competition and Without Investment
The announcement comes amid a lively political debate. Luis Chacón, the councilor of Industry for Puerto del Rosario, previously suggested that the dismantling depends primarily on the Ministry for Ecological Transition (MITECO), minimizing the role of the regional government to mere “notes.” However, the advisor strongly countered these claims, affirming, “These are not just notes.” He emphasized that after thirteen years, they have successfully pushed for a public competition, asserting the valuable work done by the Canary Islands Government to break free from a stagnant situation.
While he acknowledged that the ultimate authority lies with the state, he insisted that regional involvement has been crucial to moving the process forward. “We have secured the public competition whose resolution includes the dismantlement of El Charco and La Candelaria,” he reiterated, showcasing the tangible impacts of their advocacy.
In the final stages of his discussion, the advisor also addressed the crucial matter of waste management resulting from dismantling. He assured that “the entire process will be conducted through an authorized waste manager,” ensuring all materials are handled in compliance with current regulations. Ultimately, this dismantling offers a chance to reclaim urban space for the city, paving the way for a brighter, cleaner future.
