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Barcelona’s strategies towards sustainability
With significant talks and agreements about tackling the climate change in recent years, the city of Barcelona developed their own innovative strategy for the future. The local administration established several models and strategies over the years, which all aim at achieving the city’s sustainability.
The first such strategy was established in 2011. The primary goal was the maximization of power generation through use of local renewable sources. Furthermore, the reduction of energy consumption is also included in this strategy, which is regulated through intelligent use of resources and energy saving measures.
This model replaced the previous one, which was preferencing fossil fuels. Because of that, extensive change was needed in the short to medium term, in order to follow both European and national guidelines.
The restructuring was done through change of patterns of power generation and consumption. It also promoted enhanced use of solar cells and power. Since Barcelona is a Mediterranean city, it presents an excellent stop for harnessing solar energy.
To further supplement its strategies, the City Council established several bodies and public companies for these matters. The Energy Operator, a department of the City Council, was the first government body responsible for promotion of renewable sources of energy. Its main goal was drafting energy policies which regulate efficiency of energy production and consumption. These legal regulations helped the city to establish a transition towards renewable energy sources.
Most notable public company which promotes transition to green energy established as part of this strategy is Barcelona Energía, also known as BE. This company was founded in 2018, with the goal of promoting local and renewable energy generation. The aim of actions taken by BE is implementation of a sustainable energy model and nearly all of them include citizen participation. To further supplement its actions, BE also provides certified 100% renewable energy to its customers.
In addition to supplying 100% renewable energy, BE also organizes different educational events. These manifestations are a great opportunity for citizens of Barcelona to educate themselves about energy efficiency. There are also special offices, which provide personal advice to all those interested in the work of BE.
Today, BE supplies Barcelona City Council and 5,000 other companies, organizations and households with renewable energy. The City Council was its first customer, back in 2018, and proved to be an excellent basis for expansion. In 2019, the BE started cooperation with other entities and citizens.
The plans for the future projects by BE, aim at a 500% increase in use of solar energy. This will be achieved through a series of strategies, which include tools and services, in order to attract more interest from citizens. There are plans for establishment of a digital platform, which will enable all interested to analyze cost efficiency of solar generators. This platform will also have a solar calculator, which helps people who have their own solar panels optimize consumption. This will in turn make more households transition towards solar energy and self-consumption.
Additionally, BE offers installation of solar generators for local residents. It provides to all those interested a solar generator and its installation. After this step, BE offers guidance and maintenance of these installations.
These projects and companies are producing wide benefits for the city of Barcelona. From a social standpoint, these projects enable an increase in transparency and citizen empowerment. This is achieved through education of citizens and providing advice about energy management and improvement of consumption habits.
The health benefits are also substantial, since production of renewable energy does not cause pollution. This establishes a cleaner environment, improves quality of life in the city and reduces greenhouse gas emission.
The transition towards renewable energy also introduces new business and work opportunities. With new companies, organizations and entities emerging each year, there are more chances for networking, cooperation, partnership and establishment of jobs. (photo credit: rawpixel. com/Freepik)
