New generators to reduce noise and emissions at power plant

Visita central electricaToday in the administration's plenary hall, Formentera Council president Jaume Ferrer and environment councillor Daisee Aguilera met with the Govern Balear's minister of land, energy and transport, Marc Pons, and the regional government's director general of energy, Joan Groizard. The officials then met with Es Ca Marí residents with homes near the power station in that area, and concluded the gathering with a trip to the facilities, where the Endesa company's chair, Ernesto Bonín, spoke about recent improvements at the site.

The CiF president characterised the administration's calls to reduce noise and air pollution at the power plant as “a 17 year long struggle”. He also hailed the recent installation of eight generators capable of supplying 12 megawatts. Between the new equipment and additional electricity provided by two underwater cables that extend from Eivissa to Formentera, it is hoped local energy needs can be met. Last summer saw energy demand hit highs of 20 megawatts.

Among the changes that Bonín highlighted, a single smokestack was constructed and noise-reducing screens were placed around generators. An associated turbine will only be activated in cases of emergency. The Govern's energy minister celebrated what he called “a triple win”: increased electrical potential, reduced noise pollution and less emissions winding up in the atmosphere. He said the changes would make Formentera “a better, more competitive destination spot and one with a better quality of life”.

To President Ferrer, the improvements are still just a first step. He referred to long-term plans to add two underwater supply cables connecting the island to Eivissa as well as an adjacent substation. The generators will be kept running till October 15. After that time, the existing cables are expected to suffice for Formentera's lower, off-season electricity demands.