The Barcelona City Council, setting an example in the implementation of renewable energies, is promoting the generation of solar energy, by using the roofs of existing public buildings for the installation of photovoltaic panels, taking a step forward towards energy independence.
In 2004, on the occasion of the celebration of the Forum of Cultures, the city took the first step in promoting renewable energies, with the construction of the large photovoltaic pergola in the Barcelona Forum. One of the largest photovoltaic plants in the entire State, with some 3,780m2 of solar capture, an area equivalent to a soccer field. Designed by the architects José Antonio Martínez Lapeña and Elías Torres, this super structure is capable of producing the necessary energy equivalent to the consumption of 140 homes, and avoiding the emission of 440 tons of CO2 per year.
The operation of a photovoltaic installation is quite simple. Basically, it transforms solar energy into direct current (DC) electrical energy. Through inverters, this energy is transformed into alternating current (AC) suitable for instant consumption. To achieve higher power yields, the association of multiple photovoltaic modules (made up of solar cells) is used, which constitute the generation system of the installation, called a photovoltaic plant.
The program to promote solar generation in Barcelona aims to transform the existing roofs of the city into green energy generating spaces. Initially, publicly owned buildings and facilities were selected (schools, libraries, sports centers, pergolas in public spaces) with unused roofs, with generation potential and good exposure to solar radiation, in addition to having a suitable structure for the new overload. It is worth mentioning that new buildings or comprehensive renovations are subject to regulations that require the incorporation of renewable energy generation.
The main purpose of this program, in addition to improving the energy efficiency of the selected buildings, is to make the public administration an example in the implementation of this type of facilities, demonstrating that it is possible and feasible and becoming a driver for private action . One more step, to reverse the current energy model.
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