Catalonia: How to buy land for renewable energy installations?

Famous for its paradisiacal beaches, Catalonia is one of the most visited regions in Spain. It is known for its tourist attractions, but not only that. At a time when renewable energies are in full swing, more and more companies are also deciding to set up there to take advantage of its energy sources.

An ideal region for renewable energy installations

If, in the past, Catalonia required the use of foreign subsoil resources to function (oil for transport, natural gas for heating and electricity, nuclear energy...), it is now truly energy independent.

In fact, the Catalan territory has significant energy resources, which allows it to develop several projects, such as wind farms, hydroelectric and biomass plants, solar panels, etc. It is renewable energy in Catalonia that makes this region so attractive to local and foreign investors.

A region rich in energy resources

As everyone knows, Catalonia is a very sunny and windy region all year round. This allows companies to create technological installations based on solar energy: electricity (thanks to photovoltaic panels), solar thermal plants (thanks to solar panels), etc.

Wind from the sea is also an excellent source of renewable energy. In particular, it allows the creation of large-scale projects such as wind farms. These use offshore wind energy or the kinetic energy of the wind to create electricity.

The Pyrenees Regional Nature Park improves the region's supply of energy through the wind power it provides and the little yellow train, which is a true pioneer in renewable energy.

A region conducive to business development

Hydroelectricity, bioenergy, solar energy, geothermal energy... There are many forms of renewable energy. They are inexhaustible and their natural renewal is very rapid. For companies, they represent a considerable advantage, particularly in terms of environmental impact and economic life. For this very reason, many entrepreneurs decide to set up in Catalonia and buy land to start their business.

Importance of renewable energy for business

The use of wind power is important for large companies as it does not require fuel and does not release any carbon dioxide. Solar energy, on the other hand, reduces electricity costs and is a reliable source of energy (requires no maintenance and can last up to 25 years).

Knowing that Catalonia is rich in renewable energies (sun, wind), company managers have been looking for many years to acquire land in this region to exploit the country's energy potential and develop their renewable energy technologies.

Investing in renewable energies not only creates jobs, but also allows them to launch important projects for the environment, as shown by the creation of wind farms and the marketing of the Tesla electric car, which is increasingly present in Catalonia.

Buying land for renewable energy: what you need to know

The use of renewable energies is a safe bet for the country, in the sense that it provides climatic, economic and environmental stability. For professionals, renewable energy also offers many advantages, as it generates little waste and provides a better quality of life.

If you are considering starting a renewable energy project in Catalonia, it is important that you find the right location for your business.

Identify areas rich in energy sources

Before starting your business, you must go through a location strategy phase. This stage consists of implementing various means to determine the optimal location for your business.

As a renewable energy business, it is important that you tailor your choice of land to your needs. And the best way to exploit your renewable energy technologies is to build your business on land that is rich in eco-friendly energy sources: near the sea on the Costa (to harness the energy of the oceans, solar energy and the wind from the sea), in the Catalan Pyrenees (to benefit from the wind energy provided by the Tramontana), etc.

Of course, you should also take into account other essential criteria, such as: accessibility and visibility of the land, proximity to customers and suppliers, price of the land, tax benefits and many others.

Using a real estate agency

As in any foreign country, it is essential to use the services of a real estate agent to find the land you want. The agent will listen to your needs and offer tailor-made support to help you choose the ideal location for your business.

It is important to know that the real estate agencies in Catalonia, mainly in the Costa Brava, are small and not always able to meet your expectations. But if you don't know the advantages and disadvantages of the region, the experience of a real estate professional can be useful. They will be able to guide you in choosing the most suitable land to exploit renewable energy.

Follow the necessary procedures and steps

Setting up a business in Catalonia is a great investment opportunity for foreigners, regardless of their activity. However, it is important to note that in order to be self-employed and work officially in Spain, it is necessary to obtain an NIE, in addition to the obligatory registration in the padron's register.

For information, the NIE is a personal identification number issued to foreign nationals which allows them to carry out all administrative procedures. Obtaining this document is a real obstacle course and requires enormous patience.

You should also be aware that the procedures, including the paperwork, for moving to Catalonia can be complicated. After obtaining the NIE, you will need to open a bank account and a telephone line. Only then will you be able to find accommodation and land to build your business.