Endesa and the University of Leon are working together to identify alternatives for business development in the area of the Compostilla thermal power station

The initiative, which is called Plan Futur-e, responds to Endesa's commitment to promoting specific measures for the development of economic activity and employment generation in the area, seeking a fair energy transition towards decarbonisation that takes into account social, economic and environmental sustainability factors, with the aim of becoming an example of circular economy. Said initiative corresponds to one of the lines of action included within the Future Plan for the area surrounding the thermal power station announced by Endesa. By incorporating the University of Leon into the project, the latter will benefit greatly from the technical capabilities of the researchers and their knowledge of the territory.

The University of Leon will provide a team of researchers led by professors Victoriano Marcelo Gabella, from the Department of Agricultural Science and Engineering, and Nuria González Rabanal, from the Department of Economics and Statistics. The group also includes Enoc Sanz Ablanedo, José Cortizo Álvarez and Constantino García Ramos. As an introduction to the task, on 3 and 4 July they all took part in a knowledge exchange meeting with professors from Milan Polytechnic University, which carried out successful experiences in Italy, similar to those that will be carried out in El Bierzo.

During the first phase, the University of Leon team will gather the available documentary information, and will carry out fieldwork which consists in interviewing several dozen personalities, company directors and representatives of interested Administrations; it will also organise round tables with neighbours, social agents and the general public. With the data obtained, they will draft several documents about the socio-economic conditions of El Bierzo, aid for industrialisation, advantages of the location of Cubillos del Sil, definition of admissible business models, etc. They will also determine the framework for the launch of an international call for business initiatives that could be installed on part of the area currently occupied by Compostilla thermal power station. When Endesa launches this call, the university team will continue providing support to the process.

According to the agreement signed today, the collaboration between Endesa and the University of Leon is initially expected to last two years, although this period may be extended for a further two years.

For further information visit: futur-e.