Renewable energy archivos

Photovoltaic solutions for industries: innovation and savings in action

Renewable energy is increasingly becoming an indispensable solution for industries. At AECA Group, we know that PV self-consumption not only contributes to a cleaner future, but also represents a unique opportunity for industries to reduce operating costs and strengthen their commitment to the environment.

Why choose PV in the industrial sector?

Photovoltaic self-consumption is much more than a trend: it is a smart strategy that combines economic savings, technological innovation and sustainability. Installation of photovoltaic systems enables industries to:

Reduce energy costs
: Generating your own energy reduces dependence on traditional networks and protects against price volatility.
Optimize efficiency
: Harnessing sunlight, an inexhaustible source of energy, significantly improves operational efficiency.
Comply with environmental regulations
: Regulatory requirements are growing, and PV self-consumption helps meet them cost-effectively.

Tangible benefits for industry

Industries adopting PV self-consumption experience a number of competitive advantages:

Long-term savings
: The reduction in energy costs has a direct impact on profitability.
Energy independence
: Generating own energy protects against supply cuts and price increases.
Improvement of the corporate image
: The adoption of renewable energies reinforces the company’s environmental commitment, a factor valued by both customers and investors.

Our commitment to sustainability

At AECA Group, we are fully committed to a more sustainable future. Each project photovoltaic energy
we do is designed not only to benefit our customers, but also to contribute to a more environmentally friendly future.

Innovation and technology at your service

We use the latest technologies to ensure our solutions are efficient, cost-effective and sustainable. From high-efficiency solar panels to intelligent energy management systems, every detail is thought out to deliver maximum performance.

Let’s take the next step towards sustainability!

If you are looking for an innovative and efficient energy solution for your company, photovoltaic self-consumption is the answer. In AECA Group
, leader in the field of customized energy solutions, we can accompany you on this path, from project design to continuous maintenance.

Contact us

today and find out how we can help you transform your solar business. Together, we will build a cleaner, more efficient and competitive future.

Celebrating 30 years of energy and commitment at AECA

Celebramos 30 años de energía y compromiso en AECA

2024 is a very special year for us at AECA: we are celebrating three decades of history since our founding in 1994 by Robert Aliana Nicolau! Thus was born the Assessoria Energètica Catalana (AECA SL), starting a journey of 30 years that has been a journey of innovation, growth and service, making us a benchmark in the energy engineering sector for industries.

A history built on passion and innovation

Since our inception, we have worked with passion and commitment to deliver high quality energy solutions, expanding and diversifying our services to meet the changing needs of the market. We specialise in:

High and low voltage (HV, LV):
Designing and executing projects that guarantee safety and efficiency in every project.
Legalisations and activity licences:
We advise and manage all the necessary procedures for our clients to comply with current regulations, facilitating the operation of their facilities.
Renewable energies:
Since 2007, we have been committed to clean energy, such as photovoltaic installations, pioneering sustainable projects that drive change towards a greener future.

Our evolution not only responds to market demands, but also to our mission to constantly innovate. Tools such as Datawatt 4.0
The new energy management system, an advanced system for monitoring and managing energy consumption in real time, which enables industries to optimise their resources and improve their operational efficiency, allows us to integrate advanced technology in energy management.

The driving force of our success: our team and our customers

None of these achievements would have been possible without the people who have been part of our history. We have a team of expert, creative, committed and passionate professionals who have made AECA synonymous with excellence.

To every member of the team, past and present:
Thank you for your dedication, you are the foundation of our success!

We would like to extend our thanks to our customers and partners. Their trust in us has been key to our growth, overcoming challenges and reaching this important anniversary. Together we have built relationships based on quality, transparency and the constant search for efficient solutions.

A future full of energy and sustainability

Celebrating 30 years not only fills us with pride, it also drives us to look forward. At AECA we remain committed to a sustainable future, offering comprehensive services for industries that adapt to the needs of our clients and respect the environment.

With the same enthusiasm as on the first day, we continue to develop innovative energy solutions, always keeping sustainability and efficiency as fundamental pillars.

Thank you for joining us on this three-decade journey. Together we will continue to build a better future.

Here’s to many more years of energy, commitment and innovation!

Tax benefits and subsidies for energy efficiency projects in the industrial sector

Growing concerns about climate change and sustainability have put the industrial sector in Spain under pressure to reduce its energy consumption and carbon footprint. Fortunately, a number of tax incentives and subsidy programmes are available to facilitate the adoption of more efficient and sustainable technologies.

In this article, we will take a look at the main grants available to companies investing in energy efficiency projects in the industrial sector.

Fiscal incentives

1. Corporate Income Tax Deductions

Companies that invest in energy improvements can benefit from significant tax deductions in corporate income tax. Investments that favour energy efficiency, such as the implementation of renewable energy systems, the optimisation of production processes or the modernisation of machinery, can receive deductions of up to 30% of the investment made. This measure is particularly attractive for industries that require large amounts of energy in their processes.

2. Accelerated depreciation

Another key fiscal tool is the accelerated depreciation of energy efficiency related assets. This mechanism allows companies to recover the cost of their investment in a shorter period, which improves their cash flow and reduces the tax impact in the first years after the implementation of the project. Companies can apply this benefit to assets such as efficient machinery, cogeneration systems or industrial solar panels.

3. IAE (Business Activity Tax) rebates

Some local administrations offer rebates in the Economic Activities Tax (IAE) for companies that demonstrate a significant reduction in their energy consumption thanks to the implementation of improvements in their facilities. These rebates can be 50% or more, depending on the locality and the energy impact of the project.

Grants and support programmes

1. Aid Programme for Energy Efficiency in the Industrial Sector

This programme, managed by the Institute for Energy Diversification and Saving (IDAE), offers subsidies for projects that promote the improvement of energy efficiency in industrial facilities. Eligible measures include the renovation of obsolete industrial equipment, the installation of energy management and control systems, and the implementation of efficiency systems in thermal processes. Grants can cover up to 30% of the total investment.

2. Next Generation EU Funds

Spain’s Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan, financed by Next Generation EU funds, includes a specific line for the energy transformation of the industrial sector. This programme aims to support large-scale projects that not only improve energy efficiency, but also drive the transition towards a greener and digitised industry. Grants can reach up to 40% of the investment in projects that integrate renewable energy, storage technologies and optimisation of resource use.

3. Regional programmes

At the regional level, there are numerous support programmes for energy efficiency in industry. Communities such as Catalonia, the Basque Country and Andalusia have specific aid for the modernisation of industrial infrastructures with a focus on energy sustainability. These aids, often co-financed by European funds such as the ERDF, facilitate the adoption of clean technologies such as biomass, geothermal and solar thermal energy in industrial plants.

How to apply for these grants

To access these aid and tax benefits, companies must comply with certain requirements, such as the presentation of energy efficiency certificates accrediting the improvements made. It is also important to be aware of the deadlines and specific procedures for each call, which are usually managed through regional or national bodies, such as the IDAE or the industry departments of the autonomous communities.

In addition, it is advisable to have the support of specialised consultants who can guide companies through the application process and ensure that all technical and legal requirements are met to maximise the economic benefit.

The result of a commitment to energy efficiency

Industries that are committed to energy efficiency not only manage to reduce their operating costs, but also contribute to a more sustainable and responsible production. The tax incentives and subsidies available facilitate decision-making in favour of modernisation and optimisation of energy resources, thus placing Spanish industries at the forefront of sustainability and global competitiveness.

In this context, AECA Group plays a key role by offering solutions for energy solutions customised for the industrial sector. From the consulting
for the implementation of energy efficient technologies, up to the management of subsidised projects, in
AECA Group we accompany companies throughout the process of transition to a more sustainable industry. With 30 years of experience in energy efficiency for the industrial sector and our know-how in the processing of grants and subsidies, we are an expert in the field of energy efficiency. strategic partner to maximise the return on investment in energy projects and to guide every step of the process towards a more efficient and competitive future.

Development of solar micro-grids for industrial parks: potential and benefits

Solar micro-grids are autonomous energy systems that operate on a localised basis and are capable of generating, storing and distributing solar energy independently or in conjunction with the main electricity grid. These grids are composed of solar panels, battery storage systems, and often energy management software that optimises the use and distribution of the energy generated.

In this article, from AECA Group we will look at the potential and benefits of solar micro-grids. Let’s take a look.

Innovative solution in industrial parks

A relevant technical fact is that micro-grids can reduce the load on the main grid and provide energy resilience, especially useful during outages or demand peaks. In addition, they are particularly efficient in environments with high solar radiation, where they can achieve conversion efficiencies of up to 20% thanks to modern photovoltaic panels.

The development of solar micro-grids in industrial parks represents an innovative and efficient solution for companies seeking to improve sustainability and reduce operating costs. These grids, composed of interconnected solar photovoltaic installations, offer multiple advantages over traditional grid dependency.

Reducing dependence on the electricity grid

One of the main advantages of solar micro-grids is the significant reduction in dependence on the conventional electricity grid. By generating their own power, industrial parks can avoid the costs associated with consuming power from the grid, especially during peak hours when electricity rates are highest. This energy independence also protects companies against power outages and price fluctuations.

Improved energy efficiency

Solar micro-grids enable more efficient energy management within industrial parks. By using state-of-the-art technologies, such as smart energy management systems, companies can optimise the use of energy produced, minimising waste and improving operational efficiency. This integrated approach facilitates more precise control over energy production and consumption, adapting energy generation and storage to the actual needs of the industrial park.

Reduction of operating costs

The use of solar micro-grids also leads to a significant reduction in operating costs. Solar power, once installed, has low maintenance costs and provides an economically predictable source of energy compared to fluctuating market electricity rates. In addition, companies can benefit from tax incentives and government subsidies for renewable energy installation, which helps to amortise the initial investment more quickly.

Contribution to corporate sustainability

Adopting solar micro-grids reinforces a company’s commitment to sustainability. By reducing energy consumption from non-renewable sources and reducing carbon emissions, industrial parks can improve their environmental footprint. This commitment not only improves the company’s image in the eyes of consumers and stakeholders, but also complies with increasingly stringent environmental regulations.

Challenges and considerations

Despite its benefits, the implementation of solar micro-grids in industrial parks comes with challenges. It requires considerable upfront investment, detailed planning and possibly complex regulations. However, with a well-planned strategy designed by a specialist company in the field of solar micro-grids, it is possible to
energy solutions like AECA Group,
industries can overcome these obstacles and establish a system that is not only economically viable, but also environmentally responsible.

New basic self-consumption installation

Our colleagues have completed a new photovoltaic installation of Self-consumption with surplus compensation for a plastic industry in Montmeló (Barcelona).

225 módulos de 445Wp que generan 100kWp y un inversor Solar Edge para gestionar la producción de 148MWh al año, lo que representa una reducción de CO2 en más de 39T, equivalente a plantar 1810 árboles.

Trabajamos con nuestros clientes para mantener la actividad industrial reduciendo gastos y colaborando con el respeto al Medio Ambiente.

#autoconsumo #comunidadporelcambio

Sustainability: Reduce your Carbon Footprint

Do you know what the Carbon Footprint is? Do you know that its registration at the Ministry is voluntary? Do you know how to calculate the impact of your organization on CO2? Our client CBC (CUBIC BUILDING CONSTRUCTION) is committed to sustainability and AECA collaborates to implement its Carbon Footprint Reduction plan. The Reports and Calculations of Scope 1 and 2 have been registered with the Ministry of Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge.

PV installation in the meat industry

Photovoltaic installation for the central offices and processing plant of PLATAFORMA DE *DISTRIBUCION *CARNICA SA in Terrassa, as part of its emissions reduction project:

– 551 *Jinko panels of *460Wp
– 2 Huawei inverters of *100kWp
– With 100% self-consumption of the ➕ 328,000 kWh in the year of planned production
and reducing CO₂ emissions by more than 128 tons per year
equivalent to planting more than 380

+ info:
www.aecagroup.com
hola@aecagroup.com

#self-consumption #photovoltaics #*communityforchange #solarenergy

Solar panels: moving towards a sustainable future

Paneles solares: evolución hacia un futuro sostenible

The unstoppable rise of solar photovoltaics positions it as a backbone on the road to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future. With its ability to harness solar radiation and convert it into electricity, Solar panels have emerged as a cornerstone in the global transition to renewableenergy sources. In this article, Aeca Group will take a look at some of the ins and outs of solar photovoltaics and analyse their significant impact on the generation of clean, renewable energy.

The advantages of solar panels

Photovoltaic solar energy has a number of notable advantages that make it an attractive and sustainable option:

Green and sustainable energy:
By harnessing solar radiation, this form of energy is infinitely renewable and emits no greenhouse gases or pollutants, helping to mitigate climate change and improve air quality.
Immediate savings: The payback period is around 5 years, but the savings start to be made from the beginning, as all the energy is produced by the panels, not purchased from the electricity company.

Decentralised energy productionThe versatility of solar panels allows them to be installed in a variety of locations, from residential rooftops to commercial buildings and industrial facilities, facilitating distributed power generation. This decentralisation strengthens the resilience of the electricity system and increases its efficiency.

Maintenance and longevity:
With minimal maintenance requirements and a long life span, typically 25-30 years, solar panels represent a durable investment with significant returns over time.

Innovation and technological progress

The field of photovoltaic solar energy technology has witnessed remarkable progress in recent times. Solar panels have improved considerably in their ability to convert solar radiation into electricity, thus achieving optimal performance with a reduced installation space. In addition, advances have led to the development of flexible and semi-transparent solar panels, opening up new possibilities for their integration into various architectural applications in an innovative and aesthetically pleasing manner.

Promotion of the incorporation of photovoltaic solar energy

The uptake of solar PV has increased significantly due to a combination of elements:

State incentivesMany governments have implemented measures to promote the adoption of solar PV, offering a variety of incentives such as subsidies, tax exemptions and feed-in tariffs. These initiatives aim not only to encourage the installation of solar panels, but also to boost renewable energy generation in general.

Environmental awareness: With growing concern about climate change and the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, more and more individuals and businesses are turning to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. Solar PV stands out as an attractive option in this context, offering a viable and environmentally friendly alternative.

Decrease in expenditureTechnological advances in the solar industry, coupled with increased mass production, have contributed significantly to the reduction in the cost of solar panels in recent years. This decrease in costs has made solar PV more accessible to a wider audience, which in turn has driven its adoption globally.

Photovoltaic solar energy horizon

The horizon for solar panels, and solar PV in general, looks promising and full of possibilities. It is anticipated that the efficiency of solar panels will continue to increase, while the costs associated with their installation and production will continue to fall. The inclusion of energy storage systems, such as batteries, will ensure a constant supply of electricity even in the absence of sunlight.

In addition, photovoltaic solar energy is being combined with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain to optimise its management and efficiency. Solar panels are radically transforming the way we obtain and use electricity, offering a clean, renewable and decentralised energy source that is a crucial solution to contemporary energy and environmental challenges.

European Commission to include energy efficiency advice

La Comisión Europea incluirá consejos sobre eficiencia energética

Energy efficiency is in the news again. From February 2024, 150 randomly selected individuals from diverse backgrounds across the European Union will come together to discuss challenges and benefits related to energy efficiency. Estas reuniones se llevan a cabo tanto en encuentros presenciales como en línea. Durante la última sesión, han formulado 13 sugerencias que serán integradas en futuras acciones por parte de la Comisión Europea en materia de prácticas energéticamente eficientes.

Energy efficiency: Essential to meet EU climate targets

The European citizens’ group dedicated to energy efficiency has addressed key issues in achieving this goal and the challenges involved. During its discussions, it highlighted the importance of reducing energy consumption and managing it in a smart way as a crucial aspect of achieving clean, secure and affordable energy. These reflections are closely aligned with the European Green Pact and the EU REPower Plan.

. Además, se resaltó que la eficiencia energética desempeña un papel fundamental en la reducción del consumo total de energía, lo que es esencial para cumplir con las metas climáticas de la Unión Europea y para mejorar tanto la seguridad como la accesibilidad energética tanto en el presente como en el futuro.

During these discussions, various perspectives on the Energy Efficiency Directive were also exploredsoluciones energéticas, precisamente como las que ofrecemos en AECA Group: renewable energies, sustainability, electric vehicle charging,energy engineering, energy consulting
… The ambitious target of increasing energy efficiency by 11.7%, with a special focus on the areas most affected by energy poverty, was also highlighted.

The contributions gathered from both the European citizens’ energy efficiency group and the citizen participation platform will be integrated into a European Commission suggestion on prioritising energy efficiency, which will be addressed to Member States by the end of 2024.

Guidelines to be followed

Proposals to be considered in future actions cover a number of areas:

Improve the attractiveness of public transport for travellers.
Promote energy efficient transport across Europe with a focus on prioritising rail.
Advancing energy efficient practices applied to building construction.
Strengthen specialised job training in the European Union in the field of energy efficiency.
Ensure future preparedness through awareness raising on environmental issues.
Monitoring and evaluating the implementation of EU guidelines
Support EU citizens in creating focused energy communities through advice and financial incentives.
Financially support equitable rehabilitation in terms of energy solutions.
Achieving the objectives by strengthening the capacity for action of all those involved.
Promote both energy independence and energy efficiency to establish a global model.
Promote both energy independence and energy efficiency to establish a global model.
Empower consumers to adopt energy efficient practices.
Finally, it is proposed to optimise and expand the grid system in support of renewable energy sources, from the production stage to the end user.

What is carbon footprint and how can we reduce it?

Qué es la huella de carbono y cómo podemos reducirla

The carbon footprint is generating a lot of interest in the
ldustry and the service sector due to environmental concerns and the bad image an organisation can create if it neglects climate change issues. It has therefore become an essential tool for measuring our environmental impact and finding effective ways to reduce it. In this article, from Aeca Group
we will look at what a carbon footprint is, why it is important and what measures industries can take to minimise it.

What is the carbon footprint?

The carbon footprint is a measure of the total greenhouse gases (GHG) emitted directly or indirectly by a person, organisation, event or product throughout its life cycle. These gases, mainly carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), contribute to global warming and climate change. The carbon footprint is commonly expressed in tonnes of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e).

Sources of GHG emissions

GHG emissions come from a variety of human activities, including:

IndustryIndustrial processes and manufacturing.
Transport:Personal vehicles, public transport, aircraft and ships.
Energy: Production of electricity and heat, especially from fossil fuels
Agriculture: Cultivation and animal husbandry, fertiliser use
Waste:Treatment and disposal of solid waste and wastewater

Industry’s role in reducing carbon footprint

Industries play a crucial role in minimising their environmental impact, both in terms of their responsibility and their ability to take action. They are vital social actors in achieving a transformation towards a low-carbon and climate-conscious society. In fact, many industries have voluntarily enrolled in the carbon footprint registry, and some are already seeking to stand out as ‘carbon neutral’, i.e. aiming to achieve a zero CO2 balance.

The Administration, for any tender, will score better the project of an industry that measures and decreases its impact on the carbon footprint, an important reason to count on a leading company in energy solutions for industries such as
AECA Group.

Advantages of calculating the carbon footprint for industries

It is the most accurate indicator of a company’s level of eco-efficiency, enabling it to improve its management.
The Administration, for any tender, will score better the project of an industry that measures and decreases its impact on the carbon footprint, which is an important reason to have a leading company in energy solutions, such as
AECA Group.
Identifies opportunities to reduce costs.
Promotes transparency of environmental impact: it allows other organisations to complete their own carbon footprints and is used as a criterion for selecting sustainable suppliers, materials and designs.
It provides reliable information to consumers.
It places the company at the forefront of compliance with current environmental legislation.
It acts as a distinguishing factor in the market, promoting sustainability both internally and externally.

Personalised support

At AECA GroupWe are a leading company in customised energy solutions for industries, adapting to the specific needs of each client and finding the most suitable solution for them. Our solutions are the latest in available technology. We offer the most innovative options in the sector and incorporate new services or technologies adjusted to each case.

We are dedicated to providing our customers with the most appropriate solution, guided by criteria of cost optimisation, quality and competitiveness. We are there where our customers need us; our professional team works closely with them, offering the necessary expertise. We believe that we have a lot to contribute to society, which is why we collaborate to achieve a more sustainable future for the next generations.