A report by the César Manrique Foundation, prepared by the University of Santiago de Compostela, denounces that the implementation of wind energy in Lanzarote follows a 'neoextractivist' model and calls for real citizen participation in decision-making.
The island of Lanzarote faces a paradox: it wants to be a pioneer in renewables but risks repeating past mistakes. This is warned by a study commissioned by the César Manrique Foundation (FCM) and prepared by researchers from the University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), who have gathered the voices of fishermen, farmers, ecologists, businesspeople, and administrations over a year and a half.
The conclusion is clear: the current model of implementing wind energy on the island is, according to the researchers, a 'neoextractivist' model. That is, the same logics applied to fossil fuels are being used for renewables: top-down decisions without involving the population. And that, in a territory of 845.9 square kilometres with 41% of protected surface area, can have irreversible consequences.
A fragile territory that demands planning
Lanzarote is not just any place. Its volcanic landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its economy depends on tourism and agriculture, and its food autonomy is measured in just a few days. Therefore, the study emphasises that decisions about where and how to install wind turbines are not merely technical: they are strategic decisions about the kind of island it wants to be.
The coordinator of the drafting team, Rosa María Regueiro Ferreira, explains that citizen participation cannot be limited to submitting objections during a public consultation period. 'It means being involved in the entire process, from design to execution,' she states. She cites Denmark as an example, where a law mandated that the energy model be based on democratic principles, with all stakeholders represented.
Social participation increases social acceptance, adds local value, and fosters territorial cohesion, the study reminds.
For the residents of Lanzarote, this translates into a direct question: do you want a wind farm next to your house or your crops without having been consulted? Because so far, according to the report, this has been the case. And the consequence is social rejection, distrust, and ultimately, the paralysis of necessary projects.
Onshore wind energy in the spotlight
The study focuses on onshore wind energy, which has the most visual and territorial impact on a small island. In contrast, the researchers propose a model of participatory governance, where citizens decide not only if they want renewables but also how and where. 'It is not a hindrance, it is a guarantee of long-term success,' they argue.
The report arrives at a crucial moment: the Canary Islands are accelerating their energy transition to reduce dependence on oil, and Lanzarote is one of the islands with the most wind potential. But without a change in methodology, experts warn, there is a risk of mortgaging the island's future.
In fact, the study reveals that all consulted sectors agree on three points: ecological transition is necessary, Lanzarote is a fragile territory that needs tailored planning, and decisions cannot be made with disregard for the people. A consensus that, however, clashes with the usual practices of administrations.
The FCM has already announced that it will deliver the study to the Cabildo of Lanzarote and the municipalities, hoping it will serve as a roadmap. Meanwhile, citizens can consult the full report on the foundation's website. Because, as Regueiro says, 'the energy transition is not just an engineer's job: it is everyone's responsibility.'
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