Dialogue on Offshore Wind: Social Council Discusses Proposal for Menorca

Image from visitmenorca.com

On 19 November 2024, CIMe held a meeting with members of the Social Council of the Biosphere Reserve. The Social Council brings together representatives from a wide range of sectors, including political parties, business and hotel associations, fishermen, farmers, environmental organizations, and other key stakeholders, ensuring broad representation of local interests.

The main focus of the meeting was the potential development of an offshore wind farm off the coast of the island. Representatives from the Spanish government explained the rationale behind the selection of the proposed area, outlining the strategic, technical, and environmental criteria that guided the process. They also presented the two companies that have formally expressed interest in developing the project through submitted proposals.

The meeting provided an open forum for dialogue, allowing council members to raise questions, share concerns, and express their perspectives directly to both government representatives and the companies involved. Discussions covered a range of topics, including environmental impacts, coexistence with traditional economic activities, and the role of offshore wind in the broader energy transition.

Overall, the session emphasized the importance of transparency, participation, and inclusive decision-making when considering large-scale energy projects in a sensitive and highly valued environment such as Menorca’s Biosphere Reserve.