{
  "id": 19493542,
  "title": "Orihuela Chamber backs floating solar panels at La Pedrera to power Torrevieja desalination plant",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/11/orihuela-chamber-backs-floating-solar-panels-at-la-pedrera-to-power",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-11T12:01:40.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Leader",
    "slug": "the-leader",
    "url": "https://theleader.info/2026/11/11/orihuela-chamber-backs-floating-solar-panels-at-la-pedrera-to-power-torrevieja-desalination-plant/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Orihuela Chamber of Commerce has once again advocated for the installation of floating solar panels on La Pedrera reservoir. This project aims to reduce energy expenses at Torrevieja’s desalination plant while preserving agricultural land in the Vega Baja region. The chamber initially suggested the proposal in June. However, they reaffirmed their backing on November 10 after University of Alicante researchers presented their ideas at a conference in Torrevieja the day prior. These researchers estimated that the floating solar panels would cover less than 10% of the reservoir’s surface.\n\nMario Martínez, president of the Orihuela Chamber of Commerce, emphasized that the floating solar proposal should be prioritized over plans utilizing agricultural land. He expressed concern that withdrawing farmland from production could negatively impact a crucial industry in the local economy and alter the traditional landscape of the Vega Baja. Martínez reiterated the chamber's support for renewable energy and initiatives to lower the cost of desalinated water. Additionally, he called for the consideration of other possible sites, such as irrigation ponds and the rooftops of industrial buildings and public establishments.\n\nAccording to the Orihuela Chamber of Commerce, the region’s farmland is an integral part of a landscape deeply connected to its history, economy, and tourism potential.",
  "summary": "Orihuela Chamber of Commerce has renewed its call for floating solar panels to be installed on La Pedrera reservoir, saying the project could cut energy costs at Torrevieja’s desalination plant and protect productive farmland in the Vega Baja. The chamber first put forward the proposal in June. It reiterated its support on 10 November after […] The post Orihuela Chamber backs floating solar…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}