Red Eléctrica plans to commence works in 2026, once all necessary prior procedures have been completed
The Cabildo of Fuerteventura held a meeting today with representatives from Red Eléctrica to discuss the roadmap for the dismantling of the old 66kV electricity line and to relay this information to local councils. The dismantling of the line from Corralejo (north) to Matas Blancas (south of the island) will take place once the new 132kV double circuit line is operational and the relevant administrative authorisations for the removal of the old line are secured.
Collaboration and Communication
To prepare for the dismantling, which is conducted in compliance with the Environmental Impact Declaration for the 132kV line, Red Eléctrica is collaborating closely with the Cabildo of Fuerteventura. Meetings have been held with mayors from the municipalities along the route to explain the procedure. Additionally, property owners will be informed in conjunction with the Cabildo and other administrations.
Local Government Response
The island’s president, Lola García, stated that, “upon assuming office as a governing group, we requested that the 66kV line be removed.”
In light of this, García noted that “we have had several meetings with Red Eléctrica and what we now seek is a clear roadmap to share with all local administrations, ensuring the removal of a power line that traverses the entire island and impacts the landscape and territory.”
Environmental Considerations
Nereida Calero, the councillor for Planning, emphasised, “it is crucial to ensure that the dismantling process is carried out with the utmost respect for the environment and that all installed infrastructure is removed.” The meeting also included Candelaria Umpiérrez, mayor of Tuineje, and councillors José Díaz from Pájara and Ana Hernández from Puerto del Rosario.
Details of the Dismantling Process
Daniel Pérez Varela, director of Infrastructure at Red Eléctrica in the Canary Islands, confirmed that a total of “352 supports will be dismantled between Corralejo and Matas Blancas, located in various areas across the municipalities of La Oliva, Puerto del Rosario, Antigua, Tuineje, and Pájara. The works will proceed in accordance with the existing environmental conditions and the preventive and corrective measures planned, which include the removal of all infrastructure and the restoration of the land to its original state.”
Timeline and Impact on Services
According to Red Eléctrica, the works are expected to commence next year, with preparations underway to begin as soon as all requisite prior procedures are completed. The dismantling will not impact the electricity supply, which is assured through the new 132kV line.
Main Actions to be Undertaken
The dismantling will involve the removal of the 352 supports and their conducting cables, the loosening of the wires and their removal, the disassembly of structures, the collection of conductors, ground wires, and insulator chains, the destruction of foundations, and the removal of surplus materials from civil works, as well as the removal of bases from the old supports where applicable.
