Guillermo Galván García, the coordinator of ITER’s Wind Energy Department in Tenerife, is on a mission to increase the island’s reliance on clean energy sources while also minimizing the impact of turbine installations on the environment. Tenerife, being a windy and tropical island, presents unique challenges for wind energy production. The high levels of humidity, salt from the sea, and sand from the Sahara Desert can cause turbines to accumulate dirt and rust easily.
At ITER, the renewable energy technology institute where Guillermo works, his team has already installed 28 wind turbines. The institute owns a total of 47 turbines spread across six sites on the island, collectively powering approximately 50,000 homes. Previously, Tenerife heavily relied on non-renewable energy sources like imported diesel and crude oil, but now, thanks to efforts like Guillermo’s, 20% of the island’s electricity comes from solar and wind power.
While renewable energy is crucial for protecting the environment, Guillermo is also mindful of the potential negative impact of wind farms on the landscape. Before constructing any new turbines, careful planning is essential to ensure that the benefits of the wind farm outweigh any environmental drawbacks. Considerations include factors such as visual impact, noise levels, effects on local wildlife and plant life, and prevention of soil erosion. It’s worth noting that many countries, including Spain, have regulations in place that prohibit the construction of wind farms in protected areas to preserve biodiversity.
Guillermo emphasizes that while renewable energies are a vital tool in combating climate change and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, they are not the sole solution to our energy challenges. Over the past five decades, global electricity consumption has been steadily increasing, and there is a lack of comprehensive plans or ambitious goals to curb this trend. It is essential for both individuals and governments to recognize the urgent need to reduce overall energy consumption. After all, the cleanest form of energy is the one that is not consumed in the first place.
Guillermo’s work highlights the importance of sustainable energy practices and the need for a holistic approach to transitioning towards cleaner sources of power. By balancing the benefits of renewable energy with environmental considerations and promoting energy conservation, we can work towards a more sustainable and greener future for generations to come.
