Renewables and nature, a flourishing coexistence in Spain
Photovoltaic plants are helping to boost the local economy and protect biodiversity in areas of Spain where many species were in danger of disappearing. One example of this is the Convive Programme developed by Iberdrola, a world leader in renewable energy.
Renewable energy plants - a refuge for biodiversity
Renewable energy and the primary sector have shown that they can not only coexist in the same space, but also complement and benefit from each other's actions (Spain: Can crops and solar panels coexist? | Nieuwsbericht | Agroberichten Buitenland). The dual use of land for agriculture and energy reduces pressure on ecosystems and biodiversity, which are affected by the expansion of arable lands. The development of photovoltaic plants becomes a true haven for biodiversity, through the creation and preservation of ecosystems and the absence of human activity inside the enclosures.
A recent environmental study has confirmed that Iberdrola's Campo Arañuelo III photovoltaic solar plant, located in Extremadura, is "a peaceful and highly wildlife-friendly space". This is an example of coexistence between photovoltaic use with the environment, as well as the preservation and promotion of local biodiversity. The field study has confirmed the presence inside the photovoltaic plant of more than 10 different species of mammals and up to 64 small birds, which is "a favourable environment for the native fauna".
For Dr. Alfredo Ortega, author of the report, "it is evident that there are no significant differences in terms of diversity between the inside and outside of the installation. The type of enclosure used facilitates the movement of any species of mammal in the area. Photovoltaics can coexist perfectly well with nature".
The report also concludes that the plant has made it possible to "transform a previously unfavourable environment" caused by former stockpile areas and areas degraded by the construction of a motorway, into a peaceful and highly usable space for wildlife.
This plant was also awarded the UNEF Seal of Excellence in Sustainability. This distinction recognizes solar power plants built with the highest criteria for social and environmental integration.
Convive Programme
Several of Iberdrola's solar plants are part of its so-called Convive Programme. It was created with the aim of being a continuous improvement programme that integrates all the initiatives and alliances for the coexistence between renewable energies and their contribution to socio-economic development and the conservation of biodiversity.
More information about Iberdrola España’s renewable energy projects: Iberdrola to install Spain's first hybrid hydroelectric and solar plant - Iberdrola
Source: Iberdrola