At a conference focused on Renewable Energies: A Sustainable Future, held in Valladolid and hosted by the Association of Environmental Information Journalists (APIA) and Iberdrola, the Chief Executive Officer of Iberdrola Spain outlined a bold perspective on climate action and the energy transition. The message was clear: the climate crisis demands a shift to a new model of electricity generation, one that is powered by innovation, collaboration, and a sustained commitment to decarbonisation. The speech emphasized that Spain possesses the tools, talent, and industrial capacity to lead in energy decarbonisation and to turn ideas into concrete progress across the sector.
The speaker stressed that there is considerable room for improvement in renewable energy adoption across society, with the media playing a pivotal role in informing and shaping public perception. Progress will come, he suggested, through collective effort and ongoing cooperation between industry, civil society, and journalists who report on environmental and energy issues. This cooperative approach is essential to translate technical potential into practical outcomes that benefit communities and the economy alike.
According to the CEO, Spain has not only the energy resources but also the human capital and the financial strength necessary to support research and development. He called on Iberdrola to act as a driver of regional development, aligning its operations with sustainability goals and a commitment to diversity. The emphasis was on creating local value while advancing a broader decarbonisation agenda that can fuel long-term growth and resilience in the energy system.
Reflecting on the role of business in the transition, the executive described Iberdrola as part of a broader movement of professionals who wear the metaphorical “green ties” with pride. The point was that the expansion of renewable energies is not only a present necessity but also a future opportunity that will define the country’s competitive edge and environmental stewardship. Journalists and the public alike were urged to rely on credible information from responsible companies to understand the steps being taken toward a cleaner energy mix. The message underscored the importance of transparent communication and credible reporting when discussing energy investments, policy developments, and environmental outcomes. [Source: APIA and Iberdrola conference attribution]
María García de la Fuente, president of APIA, described the moment as historic, underscoring a shared sense of urgency and responsibility. The discussion highlighted three principal challenges ahead: first, achieving broad social consensus on where renewable facilities should be located; second, safeguarding biodiversity as energy projects expand; and third, ensuring that renewable energy deployment aligns with health, food security, and the overall well-being of communities. The dialogue emphasized that renewable energies must cohere with biodiversity goals to define the country’s model for the years to come and to ensure that environmental protection remains central to development plans. [Source: APIA and Iberdrola conference attribution]