New Emergency Power Plant Set to Alleviate Energy Shortages in Santa Cruz

The Government of the Canary Islands has taken decisive action by approving the construction of an emergency power plant at Puerto Santa Cruz, Tenerife. This initiative is a direct response to the ongoing energy crisis affecting the region, which has prompted urgent measures to ensure a stable and reliable electrical supply for residents and businesses alike.

Overview of the Power Plant Initiative

The newly authorized facility is designed to deliver essential backup power, boasting a capacity of 18 megawatts. Strategically situated in the Chicharrero port area, this power plant aims to bolster the region’s energy infrastructure. To facilitate its construction, the government has made significant amendments to urban planning regulations, as the selected site was previously deemed unsuitable for such developments. This move underscores the critical need for enhanced energy resources in the Canary Islands, particularly in light of the declared energy emergency.

Technical Specifications and Project Execution

The construction of the plant will be undertaken by Sampol I. and O. Canarias, S.L., which will install a total of ten diesel-powered generators. Collectively, these generators will provide the necessary 18 megawatts of power, connecting seamlessly to the high-voltage grid via the Dique del Este substation. The design of this managed generation system is intended to serve as a reliable backup during periods of high demand or critical failures within the existing electrical network.

To expedite the project, the government is utilizing Article 6 bis of the Canary Islands Electricity Sector Law. This provision allows for a streamlined process for public interest projects, enabling the direct execution of the power plant without the need for extensive territorial or urban planning approvals. However, it does require subsequent adjustments to the planning framework, acknowledging the absence of specific guidelines for such infrastructure in the area. This legislative approach has facilitated the elevation of the project to the Government Council for swift action.

Community Feedback and Environmental Impact Assessment

During the consultation phase, the Cabildo de Tenerife raised important concerns regarding the lack of an analysis of alternative sites for the power plant. They emphasized the necessity for a clear justification to minimize potential environmental impacts. Nevertheless, they acknowledged that the project would not interfere with the objectives of the Singular Structural Operation for the Santa Cruz-El Rosario waterfront. Meanwhile, the Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council indicated that it could not provide feedback on the project, as the land in question falls under the jurisdiction of the port authority.

In July 2025, the project received a positive Environmental Impact Declaration, which determined that the plant would not pose significant adverse effects on the environment, provided that all preventive, corrective, and monitoring measures outlined in the resolution are strictly followed. This declaration is a crucial step in ensuring that the project aligns with environmental protection standards.

Concerns from Local Authorities and Residents

As the project moves forward, various concerns have been raised by local authorities and community members. The General Directorate of Emergencies, Public Health officials, and the Santa Cruz City Council have all voiced apprehensions regarding the storage of 400,000 liters of diesel within the port area. There are warnings that the potential presence of other facilities nearby has not been adequately assessed, which raises the risk of a domino effect in the event of an accident, potentially exacerbating the consequences of any serious incident.

Additionally, the city council and Public Health officials have expressed worries about the acoustic and environmental impact of the generators on surrounding neighborhoods, including San Andrés, Valleseco, and María Jiménez. Reports have highlighted deficiencies in noise studies, emission assessments, and evaluations of cumulative risks associated with other port facilities. Despite these significant concerns, the decree permits the construction of the power plant, with necessary adaptations to port urban planning deferred to a later phase.

Key points

• The Canary Islands Government has approved an emergency power plant at Puerto Santa Cruz, Tenerife.
• The facility will have a capacity of 18 megawatts and will be located in the Chicharrero port area.
• Sampol I. and O. Canarias, S.L. will develop the plant, featuring ten diesel-powered generators.
• The project is being expedited under Article 6 bis of the Canary Islands Electricity Sector Law.
• The Environmental Impact Declaration concluded that the plant would not significantly harm the environment.
• Concerns were raised about the risks associated with storing diesel and the impact on nearby communities.
• The construction of the plant is allowed despite community concerns, with urban planning adjustments deferred.