The professional fair, taking place over two days, gathers more than 60 exhibiting companies and professionals from the water and energy sectors to explore the latest trends and foster business opportunities. The event seeks to position the Canary Islands as a benchmark for energy transition and sustainability.
Antonio Morales, president of the Cabildo de Gran Canaria, emphasized the importance of "reinforcing a binomial that is currently absolutely indivisible: water and energy." He highlighted the need to pursue self-sufficiency in these areas given global and geostrategic transformations, stating that Gran Canaria "is undoubtedly the island that has advanced the most" in energy sovereignty.
The opening day featured presentations on energy storage and transition in island subsystems, noting the high cost and CO2 emissions of fossil fuel generation in the Canary Islands, which presents an opportunity for renewables. Energy solutions tailored for the islands were showcased, including high-efficiency solar panels and specialized modules for various applications.
Experts agreed on the need to streamline permit processing for renewable energy integration and advocated for the development of large-scale energy storage, considering the archipelago a "perfect laboratory." Opportunities presented by floating solar technology in ponds and reservoirs to reduce water evaporation were also explored.
Presentations will continue to cover the use of energy intelligence, the potential of floating photovoltaic energy, cybersecurity for hydraulic infrastructures, and water reuse, in line with Royal Decree 1085/2024.
