Cabildo Rejects Public‑Interest Status for Solar Plant in Gran Tarajal
The Cabildo of Fuerteventura has rejected the declaration of public and social interest for the “Majorera I” photovoltaic plant. The project was slated for a location that is vulnerable to flooding according to the island’s Hydrological Plan and sits on land composed entirely of traditional gavías—stone drainage channels used in local agriculture.
Why the Project Was Rejected
- Hydrological concerns: The CIAF (Island Water Council) report identifies the site as prone to flooding from ordinary streams, making it incompatible with the island’s hydrological planning.
- Cultural heritage: The Cabildo’s Cultural Heritage department highlighted that gavías are a cultural asset tied to traditional agricultural practices, possessing significant patrimonial, landscape, and hydrological value.
Both the Cultural Heritage and Water Council reports were unfavorable, leading the latest Council of Government to deny the public‑interest status for the plant, which would affect an area at the entrance of Gran Tarajal in the municipality of Tuineje.
Official Statements
“We will not allow, at any time, that these energy systems negatively impact our heritage and natural environments.” – Lola García, President of the Cabildo of Fuerteventura
“The Cabildo is working on the Territorial Energy Plan (Plan‑TE) to combine clean‑energy deployment with the protection of Majorera territory.” – Nereida Calero, Councillor for Territorial Planning
Project Details
- Site area: Approximately 4.3 hectares
- Equipment: 7,560 photovoltaic modules
- Infrastructure: Requires the construction of an underground power line to connect the plant to a substation for energy evacuation
The Cabildo’s decision underscores its commitment to safeguarding both the island’s environmental integrity and its cultural heritage while pursuing sustainable energy solutions.