News / 22 November, 2023
In an important step towards sustainability and the promotion of renewable energies, the Kursaal Conference Centre has completed the installation of photovoltaic solar panels on its roof. The solar plant will be entirely dedicated to self-supply. With a capacity of up to 258 kW, it will enable the Kursaal to generate its own electricity and reduce its dependence on external energy sources.
The project, which has required an investment of 185,000 euros, has been partially financed with funds from the European Union - NextGenerationEU, within the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan with the support of the Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge, the Institute for Energy Diversification and Saving (IDAE) and the Public Energy Business Entity (EVE).
The photovoltaic solar panels, made up of silicon cells that convert sunlight into electricity, cover a large part of the roof of the Palacio de Congresos, specifically 783 m2 on the roof of the auditorium and 327 m2 on the roof of the chamber hall. The installation has been designed to blend in with the architectural aesthetics of the building, without compromising its distinctive appearance. In addition, the optimal orientation has been taken into account to maximise solar energy production.
It is estimated that the Kursaal's solar power plant will generate around 210,000 kWh of electricity per year, which represents approximately 13% of the building's energy needs. This renewable energy production will prevent the emission of 52,500 kg of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, equivalent to the average annual consumption of 63 homes, thus contributing to the fight against climate change and the reduction of the city's carbon footprint. It should also be noted that all the energy sources used by the conference centre are 100% renewable.
The Kursaal Conference Centre, renowned for its excellence in management and its innovative approach, also aspires to be a leader in the field of sustainability. By incorporating photovoltaic solar panels, the Kursaal demonstrates its commitment and contribution to the development of a cleaner and more environmentally friendly energy model, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations.
