The Canary Island government’s General Directorate of Energy has announced a public consultation regarding the declaration of public utility for a new solar park project in Mácher, Tías.
The initiative, led by Madrid-based RS Iberia 23 SL, proposes the installation of 6,288 photovoltaic panels, 16 inverters, a transformation centre, and an underground evacuation line on rural land. The project also involves the expropriation of 39 plots. RS Iberia 23 SL is additionally behind the Tías I project, which aims to install 1,680 solar panels and expropriate 36 plots. Both projects are expected to undergo a simplified environmental assessment together.
However, the Tías City Council has expressed strong opposition to the plan. The ruling coalition, made up of the PSOE and Podemos parties, has called on the regional government, led by Coalición Canaria (CC) and the Popular Party (PP), to halt what they describe as speculation concerning Lanzarote and Tías specifically.
Mayor José Juan Cruz Saavedra emphasised that administrative viability should not be granted to private business projects that jeopardise the territory. He condemned the continued approval of such initiatives which, according to him, prioritise the interests of speculators over local communities.
Cruz Saavedra has also blamed the leadership of the Cabildo and the regional government for deceiving the people of Lanzarote. He urged Oswaldo Betancort, an influential figure within CC, to intervene and stop the reckless management of environmental policies.
The Tías Council reiterated the importance of a structured, sustainable approach to renewable energy development. They plan to submit all necessary objections and resources to block the project in Mácher.
