Candelaria Takes a Bold Step Towards Sustainable Energy with New Community Initiative

The Town Council of Candelaria has taken a significant step forward by officially approving the establishment of the municipality’s first energy community. This groundbreaking initiative is expected to revolutionize local energy management and set a precedent for sustainable practices in the region.

Embracing European Sustainability Initiatives

This new energy community initiative is closely aligned with the European Union’s ambitious sustainability objectives, which focus on decarbonisation and the transition to a more sustainable energy framework. The EU has underscored the importance of engaging consumers and local entities in this transformative process. To support these goals, the Canary Islands Government has introduced a series of grants aimed at facilitating the creation and operation of energy communities, leveraging funding from the Next Generation EU program.

The Town Council of Candelaria is strategically positioned to capitalize on these funding opportunities, as the establishment of this local energy community is a prerequisite for accessing the financial support provided by the regional government. This funding will not only aid in the initial setup but also ensure the long-term viability of the community’s energy initiatives.

Empowering the Community Through Renewable Energy

The formation of the energy community is driven by a commitment to public utility and the general interest of the community. This initiative aims to foster the use of renewable energy among residents, significantly reduce harmful emissions, combat energy poverty, and promote a more democratic and participatory energy model. By doing so, it is anticipated that the community will experience substantial economic and social benefits, leading to new investments and enhanced social cohesion.

Moreover, the energy community is expected to create a platform for residents to engage with renewable energy sources actively. This engagement will not only empower citizens but also instill a sense of ownership over local energy resources, thereby encouraging responsible consumption and sustainable practices.

Strategic Framework and Objectives for Energy Sustainability

The approved statutes for the energy community outline a non-profit association designed to be open, participatory, and transparent. Among its primary objectives are enhancing the energy sustainability of the municipality, facilitating the production and self-consumption of renewable energy by residents, businesses, and local administrations, and advancing decarbonisation efforts. Additionally, the initiative aims to support households facing energy vulnerability, promote sustainable mobility, and implement projects focused on renewable energy generation and energy efficiency.

With the formal approval of these statutes, Candelaria is set to embark on the necessary steps to launch this strategic initiative. The municipal government has expressed that this move positions Candelaria alongside other local initiatives striving for a cleaner and fairer energy model. This alignment not only fulfills European commitments but also contributes to a genuine energy transition at the municipal level, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

Learning from Successful Energy Communities Nearby

Candelaria is not venturing into this initiative without precedent. Neighboring municipalities such as Adeje and El Rosario have already established operational energy communities that have yielded positive outcomes. These successful models serve as valuable precedents for Candelaria’s new initiative, demonstrating the potential benefits and feasibility of such community-driven energy projects.

By studying these successful examples, Candelaria can adopt best practices and avoid common pitfalls, ensuring a smoother implementation process. The experiences of Adeje and El Rosario highlight the importance of community engagement and collaboration in achieving energy sustainability goals, which Candelaria aims to replicate.

Key points

• Candelaria Town Council has approved the creation of its first energy community.
• The initiative aligns with EU goals for decarbonisation and sustainable energy systems.
• Funding for the energy community is supported by the Canary Islands Government and Next Generation EU resources.
• The energy community aims to promote renewable energy use and reduce emissions.
• Statutes define the community as a non-profit, participatory association.
• Successful energy communities already exist in Adeje and El Rosario, providing valuable precedents.