Tag Archives: Energy

Renewable energies (2): Zoning and energy sovereignty

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This note is the second part of a reflection on the relationship between renewable energy and land use. It describes the situation in Menorca, which can be very different from other islands as well as from mainland Spain. For this reason, it is not appropriate to assume that what happens elsewhere is being replicated here, because that is not the case.

Over the past 20 years, several wind energy projects have been proposed in Menorca but have been halted for environmental reasons. At the same time, significant progress has been made in zoning suitable areas for photovoltaic energy, ensuring that spaces with environmental or landscape protection status are not considered suitable.

Anyone interested in understanding the differences and criteria applied in Menorca is encouraged to read the full text presented here.

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Renewable energies and territory: an ongoing debate (1)

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The development of solar parks near Sant Climent and Es Mercadal has once again reopened the debate between renewable energy and land use. This is an issue that is never easy to resolve wherever it arises, but it must be addressed calmly if a responsible approach is to be taken. Menorca has already experienced similar episodes in the past.

The occupation of rural land for energy production inevitably generates controversy, especially in a territory where this issue is particularly sensitive, as has repeatedly been shown on the island. However, what is happening in Menorca should not be confused with the clear environmental damage seen in some areas of mainland Spain, nor should it be assumed that rooftop solar alone can deliver the energy transition. The reality is more complex.

This note, together with a following one, presents the position and arguments of the environmental organisation GOB.

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Cutting the flower

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The President of the European Commission says that nuclear energy is strategic for Europe. Next month will mark 40 years since the very serious accident at the (formerly Soviet and now Ukrainian) Chernobyl plant, when a radioactive cloud larger than the entire Iberian Peninsula was released and drifted across the West as far as the United States. The radiation was equivalent to hundreds of bombs like the one in Hiroshima.

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Considerations on a second offshore wind project

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The GOB has submitted a document with considerations to the Ministry for Ecological Transition regarding the floating offshore wind farm project “Tramuntana Wind Menorca.” This is the second offshore wind farm proposal to emerge in Menorca. It involves larger turbines than the previous one and raises as many or more environmental uncertainties.

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Join Us on Saturday, December 28th, at 10:30 AM, in Plaça Conquesta, Maó

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On Saturday, December 28th, a rally will be held to protest against the growing tourism saturation affecting Menorca. In 2024, we have once again surpassed previous years in terms of tourist numbers, and the Consell Insular has announced a significant increase in tourism promotion.

Summer overcrowding is planned in winter. On December 28th, in Plaça Conquesta, Maó, at 10:30 AM, we will come together to demand a better future. Bring your friends and join us!

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The GOB withdraws from the Sustainability Pact due to the Government’s regressive policies

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Rewarding illegal construction in rural areas or allowing building in high-risk zones represents a major setback in land-use policies. Such measures undermine the critical discussions needed to decide the Balearic Islands’ development model.

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Offshore wind energy in Northern Menorca

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In February 2023, Spain approved the Maritime Spatial Plans (MSP) to regulate various marine activities across the country, including renewable energy installations. These plans designated two areas north of Menorca (LEBA 2 and LEBA 3) as the only spaces in the Balearic Islands where offshore wind projects could be developed.

This year, a French company introduced the “Gregal Offshore Wind Project,” planned for the LEBA 2 area. GOB Menorca has sent a report to the Ministry of Ecological Transition with several considerations.

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Menorcan challenges on World Tourism Day

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An excessive number of vehicles, overcrowded spaces, water shortages, and increased energy pollution are all consequences of Menorca’s growing touristification. When combined with housing difficulties and a gradual drop in per capita income, it is clear that the island’s tourism model needs rethinking.

On World Tourism Day, the GOB reflects on the growing social unrest in many nearby tourist hotspots.

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