Lanzarote’s socialist mayors have accused Oswaldo Betancort, the president of the Cabildo, of prioritising speculation over renewable energy by pushing for the creation of Renewable Acceleration Zones (ZAR) without consulting local councils.
The PSOE party claims that decisions affecting 3,163 hectares of the island’s land are being made without proper planning or agreement with the affected municipalities. They expressed concern that over a year has passed before Betancort has started involving local administrations in the process.
This lack of communication has led to confusion, marked by contradictory announcements and shifting strategies that have unsettled local governments, the primary sector, and citizens.
PSOE’s general secretary for Lanzarote, María Dolores Corujo, has been meeting with socialist leaders from affected areas to hear their concerns and develop a unified stance in defence of Lanzarote’s interests.
Corujo stated, “Municipalities cannot continue reacting to constantly changing announcements or learn about decisions affecting their land through the media.” She called for a careful, collaborative planning process that provides security for local administrations and residents.
While supporting renewable energy, Corujo maintained that the transition should involve thorough planning and institutional cooperation. She emphasised the need for such projects to respect the landscape, the primary sector, legal security, and the autonomy of the councils.
“Renewable energy is an opportunity for Lanzarote, but it must not lead to hasty decisions.” Corujo insisted that future decisions must be made in partnership with the municipalities, ensuring citizens have confidence in the outcomes.
The socialist leaders believe the conversation should extend beyond just the land affected by ZAR and advocate for consistent, transparent planning that protects the territory in the public interest.
The Lanzarote PSOE is committed to promoting a model of renewable energy development that balances landscape conservation, sustainable economic growth, and meaningful local involvement in decisions related to their future.
