In light of recent information regarding the application for authorization to install a 1-megawatt photovoltaic plant in Mácher, in the municipality of Tías, the Cabildo of Lanzarote reiterates that any renewable energy project on the island must first have the approval of the first island institution.
Jesús Machín, representing the Cabildo, has emphasized that "the Cabildo already has an energy plan in development, which is awaiting validation by the environmental body." In this regard, the Cabildo reminds the Department of Transition that "the need to wait for the approval of the island's energy plan before authorizing any new installation was established."
"Although, in this case, it only involves a routine procedure by the department, we insist on the need to wait to complete the island's planning in order to manage a fragile territory, rich in natural resources and with a unique environmental value as best as possible," Machín stated, inviting institutions and companies to respect the island's energy planning framework, "which not only responds to the need to advance in the energy transition but also to the obligation to preserve the fragile ecosystem and the valuable natural and cultural heritage of Lanzarote."
The Cabildo insists that it "has a different territorial and environmental awareness, which prioritizes the protection of the environment against an uncontrolled proliferation of infrastructures such as windmills or photovoltaic panels." "We do not want to see our lands full of wind or photovoltaic farms without a clear and sustainable criterion. We have committed to protecting Lanzarote's natural resources, and that is something we will continue to defend firmly," he added.
In the case of the previous 3-megawatt project, the Cabildo already issued a clear opinion opposing its installation, and in this new case, it will proceed in the same way. "We are responsible for determining where and how these projects will be implemented, ensuring a balance between energy development and the sustainability of our territory," Machín pointed out.
"In Lanzarote, absolutely nothing will be done in terms of renewable energy without the Cabildo supervising and approving each project. Sustainability is non-negotiable; it is a priority that guides all our decisions," he concluded.
