The Balearic Government has declared two photovoltaic projects in Llucmajor as strategic, which will total 49,520 solar panels and a total capacity of 32.6 MWp. The facilities, promoted by Ventaja Solar 24 and Univergy Renovables, will be located within the municipality and will expedite their processing.
Llucmajor is consolidating itself as the municipality in Mallorca with the highest concentration of large solar parks. The Governing Council approved on Tuesday the declaration of two new photovoltaic installations as strategic industrial projects: Son Cànaves I and II and Na Forana. Together, they will total 49,520 panels and a peak capacity of 32.6 MWp.
Strategic declaration to expedite procedures
The declaration of strategic interest, approved by the regional government, allows for the acceleration of the administrative procedures for both plants. According to sources from the Government, this figure recognises the relevance of the projects to "advance towards a more sustainable and decarbonised energy model" in the Balearic Islands. Both parks will still need to obtain all the sectoral and environmental authorisations required by current regulations.
The Son Cànaves I and II project, promoted by Ventaja Solar 24 SL, will occupy 88,173 square metres and install 22,064 solar panels. Its peak capacity will be 12.8 MWp and the installed capacity will be 10.75 MW. It includes a 6.5-kilometre underground evacuation line to the s'Arenal substation.
On the other hand, the Na Forana park, from Univergy Renovables Lend SL, will extend over 46,100 square metres with 27,456 panels. It will generate a peak capacity of 19.8 MWp and 15.84 MW installed. This project includes its own lifting substation and a 6.3-kilometre underground line to the collecting substation.
Llucmajor, solar capital of Mallorca
With these two new parks, Llucmajor concentrates around 30% of the large solar plants projected on rustic land in Mallorca. The sa Marina area has so far been the main area for these installations, although the new projects add to a dozen already underway or in processing.
For the residents of Llucmajor, this proliferation of solar parks represents a change in the landscape of the area, but also a commitment to clean energy. The Town Hall has shown its support for renewables, although it demands that natural surroundings are respected and visual impact is minimised.
The promoters estimate that the construction of both parks will generate local employment during the construction phase, although no figures have been specified. Once operational, they will help reduce dependence on fossil fuels on the island.
Next steps
The projects already have the favourable report from the Council of Industry of the Balearic Islands. They must now pass environmental procedures and obtain the municipal licence. If everything progresses as planned, construction could begin within a year.
The Balearic Government has set a goal for 70% of the electricity consumed in the islands to come from renewable sources by 2030. Initiatives like these are key to achieving that goal, although not without controversy over the use of rustic land.
You may also like
