A Paradigm Shift in Renewable Energy Production
In 2023, Ibiza is experiencing a radical transformation in renewable energy production. Previously lagging behind other Balearic Islands, the largest of the Pitiusas has finally embraced clean energy. According to data from the Balearic Statistics Institute (Ibestat), Ibiza generated 1,123.8 megawatt hours (MWh) of renewable energy in June, marking an astonishing 1,337% increase compared to June 2022 when only 84.4 MWh were produced.
From Zero to Success: Ibiza’s Journey in Renewable Energy
Ibiza’s tremendous growth in renewable energy is a remarkable achievement, considering its previous negligible contribution. In May, for the first time in recorded history, Ibiza surpassed Menorca and now stands as the second largest producer of clean energy in the Balearic Islands, after Mallorca.
The turning point came in January when Ibiza experienced a significant shift in energy production. Previously, the island had remained stagnant in its energy generation, producing 1,247 MWh in 2020 and only slightly increasing to 1,282 MWh in 2022. To make matters worse, Formentera, a smaller island, had even surpassed Ibiza in renewable energy production.
Tremendous Growth and Milestones
However, the landscape has dramatically changed. In the first six months of 2023 alone, Ibiza generated 4,359 MWh of renewable energy, surpassing the total production of the past three years combined. January 2023 witnessed a remarkable surge, with renewable energy production soaring from 149.6 MWh in December 2022 to 369.9 MWh. This rapid growth of 245% set the stage for subsequent milestones, such as surpassing 1,000 MWh in May and achieving a new record of 1,123.8 MWh in June.
A Long Road Ahead for Greater Progress
While Ibiza has made significant strides, there is still a considerable gap to bridge when compared to the entire Balearic Islands. Renewables accounted for 8.69% of the total energy consumed in the archipelago during the first half of 2023, whereas in Ibiza, it stands at only 3.94%.
Despite this disparity, the 3.94% contribution of renewables in Ibiza holds great value considering the island’s previous lack of clean energy. In 2021, renewables constituted a mere 0.31% of total energy consumption, increasing slightly to 0.34% in 2022. Although there is ample room for improvement, the growth has been substantial.
Formentera’s Positive Example and Seasonal Challenges
Formentera stands as a shining example, with 16% of its energy sourced from renewables in 2022. During the winter months, renewables can account for up to 50% of the island’s consumption, surpassing that of fossil fuels. However, as the tourist season kicks off, energy consumption soars, tipping the scale in favor of non-renewables.
The summer months witness a significant distortion in Formentera’s energy consumption. In August 2022, consumption peaked at 4,782.1 MWh, a staggering 13,470% increase compared to the least consuming month, November, with just 35.5 MWh.
Ibiza’s Current Energy Landscape
In June, Ibiza’s total energy production reached 37,762.4 MWh. Diesel accounted for 21,039.2 MWh, gas turbines contributed 15,542.9 MWh, cogeneration added 56.5 MWh, and renewables, particularly photovoltaics, generated 1,123.8 MWh. Meanwhile, Formentera produced 387.7 MWh, with 90.3 MWh from gas turbines and 297.4 MWh from photovoltaics.
