In June we started the construction of “El Cuco” 42.313 MWp photovoltaic plant for Aquila Clean Energy in Montealegre del Castillo, Albacete. A facility that will generate clean energy to supply 19,500 homes per year.
This EPC project, which is expected to be operational in 2024, will generate around 140 jobs and avoid the emission of 19,200 tonnes of CO2 per year.
“The start of construction of this renewable project is a great step to continue strengthening our commitment to Castilla-La Mancha, where we already have a plant generating clean energy,” said Jorge de Miguel, head of Development and Construction for Aquila Clean Energy in Spain.
Environmental protection
In order to promote the ecological transition, Aquila Clean Energy’s solar plants have implemented measures for the integration and renaturalization of the environment.
The new Montealegre del Castillo plant has a diversification and crop rotation plan for leguminous and cereal crops. A plan that maintains long-term fallow lands. It also contemplates the replanting of vegetation under solar panels on 100 square metres; or the creation of a vegetation screen to integrate the plant into the environment.
With regard to wildlife protection, compensation is planned for steppe bird habitats in an area of 72 hectares. This is equivalent to 50% of the plant surface. In addition, 15 nesting boxes and three drinking troughs have been installed to encourage the development of fauna in the plant’s surroundings.
Renewable energy data
In terms of renewable energy, Eiffage Energía Sistemas we are proud to be the number one European installer in terms of the number of megawatts of power. And, of all the power installed annually, one third is in Castilla-La Mancha.
Our company has built the most renewable energy facilities in Spain: 97 wind farms, with an installed capacity (constructed) of 3.5 GW; and 95 solar plants, with an installed capacity (constructed) of 4.7 GW. In total: 8.2 GW, and we are responsible for more than 80% of the Group’s renewables activity worldwide.
In Castilla-La Mancha, we have installed 23 photovoltaic plants, with 1,239.7 MW (+1.2GW); and 47 wind farms, with 1,756.75 MW (+1.7GW).
