Gran Canaria: Pioneering Renewable Energy with Innovation and Sustainability

Gran Canaria is setting a benchmark for renewable energy integration and sustainability through two groundbreaking initiatives: the Salto de Chira pumped-storage hydroelectric project and the Gran Canaria Arena’s renewable energy infrastructure. These projects exemplify the island’s commitment to energy sovereignty, environmental responsibility, and innovation.

Salto de Chira: Advancing Renewable Energy Storage

The Salto de Chira project, developed by Red Eléctrica de España (REE) in collaboration with the Cabildo of Gran Canaria, is a pioneering pumped-storage hydroelectric station that will significantly enhance energy storage and the integration of renewables into the island’s energy mix.

With 91% of its infrastructure built underground to minimise environmental impact, the project is entering a key phase with the construction of an underground cavern that will house critical energy storage facilities. Upon completion, Salto de Chira will increase renewable energy production by 37%, ensuring that 51% of Gran Canaria’s electricity comes from renewables by 2026, while also cutting CO₂ emissions by 20%.

Gran Canaria Arena: A Model for Renewable Public Infrastructure

At the forefront of sustainable urban development, the Gran Canaria Arena demonstrates how public infrastructure can actively lead the energy transition. The arena’s renewable energy system integrates a 700 kW photovoltaic plant, a 360 kW ultra-fast EV charging station powered by solar energy, and an upcoming 1 MW/1.7 MWh battery storage system.

Producing 1.38 GWh annually—115% of its energy needs—the Arena operates on 100% renewable electricity. The ultra-fast EV charging station, capable of delivering 100 km of range in just four minutes, supports clean mobility while running exclusively on solar power. Furthermore, a battery storage system, partially funded by a €685,000 grant within a total budget of €2.6 million, will store excess solar energy to power nighttime events, reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The bidding period for the battery associated with the Arena’s photovoltaic system has already closed, with a total of 22 bids submitted. This strong interest from the private sector highlights the growing demand for participation in innovative renewable energy projects.

Shaping the Future of Renewable Energy

The Salto de Chira and Gran Canaria Arena projects represent a bold step towards a cleaner, more resilient energy system. By combining energy storage, renewable generation, and sustainable mobility, these initiatives provide a blueprint for accelerating the energy transition while preserving the island’s unique environment. Their impact extends beyond reducing carbon emissions—they also foster economic opportunities, enhance energy security, and inspire broader adoption of green technologies.

Raúl García Brink, Councilor for Energy and Environment at the Cabildo of Gran Canaria and President of the Gran Canaria Island Energy Council, underscores the significance of these efforts:
“Salto de Chira and the Gran Canaria Arena showcase our ability to implement cutting-edge renewable energy solutions while respecting our unique environment. These projects serve as a model for regions striving for sustainability and energy sovereignty.”

This best practice is extracted from our publication ‘Sustainable Regions in Action‘. Discover more best practices here!