Vandellòs promotes a Renewable Energy Research Center that will open in 2028

Vandellòs i l'Hospitalet de l'Infant prepares a renewable energy research center to replace the closed nuclear plant. The first phase of the project, valued at 3.9 million, should be completed by 2028 and is mainly funded by the Nuclear Transition Fund.

The initiative arises from the municipal will to promote renewables and generate employment in a sector lacking professionals, while maintaining economic activity in the area after the closure of Vandellòs II.

The project and its location in Vandellòs

What does the Renewable Energy Center plan?

The Center for Innovation, Research, and Training in Efficiency and Renewable Energies (CIRFER) will combine training and research. It will offer intermediate and advanced level training cycles, professional certificates from the SOC, and will have spaces for cutting-edge research in energy efficiency, renewable energies, and water management.

Where and when will CIRFER be built?

The center will be located in the Les Tàpies industrial area, on municipal land in Vandellòs. The first phase will begin drafting in 2026, with earthworks planned for 2027, and will finish in 2028.

Funding and key collaborations

How will this project be financed?

The total estimated cost is 6.7 million euros, of which 3.9 million corresponds to the first phase. Most of the resources come from the Nuclear Transition Fund, which has already given initial approval, pending final approval by the Generalitat.

Who participates in the initiative?

The project involves the Rovira i Virgili University, the Directorate General of Energy, the Tarragona Provincial Council, unions, the Reus Chamber of Commerce, and private companies. IDETSA, the municipal economic promotion company, has led the idea alongside URV.

Phases and local impact

What stages does the Center have and what will it contribute?

After the first training and research phase, the project foresees a second phase starting in 2032 with showrooms for companies and activities related to renewables, recycling, and electric batteries, with an additional investment of 2.8 million.

Why does this matter to Vandellòs?

The Vandellòs II nuclear plant will close soon, and the municipality needs to maintain economic activity and generate jobs in an emerging sector. With CIRFER, it is expected to train 500 students annually and attract high-level research, avoiding being left behind in the energy transition.

The center aims to position Vandellòs i l'Hospitalet de l'Infant as a national and European reference point in renewable energies, with a direct impact on local labor and the economy.

The reality is that this project not only replaces nuclear activity but also bets on a future where training and innovation set the pace for the territory.

Source of the article: Catalan News Agency