Municipalities advocate for direct EU funding for energy transition

In the European Union, local municipalities are advocating for direct funding to lead the ecological transition. During a seminar at the European Committee of the Regions, Ánxela Fernández Callís, the mayor of O Rosal, highlighted how her municipality managed over 5 million euros from Next Generation EU funds to implement energy efficiency and sustainability projects. She argued that small municipalities possess the capacity to manage ambitious projects that directly improve residents' lives through improved public lighting and local energy production.

In the Balearic Islands, public institutions are implementing solar self-consumption projects to reduce electricity costs and reliance on the conventional grid. The Hospital de Formentera has expanded its photovoltaic installation, which is expected to save approximately 30,000 euros annually and cover about one-fifth of the facility's consumption. This initiative, promoted by the Balearic Institute of Energy (IBE), aims to extend solar panels to various public buildings, including hospitals and schools, by utilizing existing rooftops and parking areas.