Valencia’s regional government is finalizing a comprehensive package of measures to address the ongoing energy crisis and the economic strain from inflation, aiming to help meet the targets laid out in the austerity plan approved by the central government. The Consell is prepared to approve a series of special supports for commerce and hospitality, provided that organizations adjust to the regulations ratified by the national authorities. This includes measures such as automatic door adaptations, humidity sensors, and upgraded air conditioning systems, alongside direct assistance designed to help struggling families cope with rising prices.
In today’s talks, Consell president Ximo Puig, the Minister of Finance and Economic Model, Arcadi Spain, and the Minister of Sustainable Economy, Productive Sectors, Trade and Labor, joined social representatives to outline the path forward. The plan is set within the framework of the current energy crisis and prioritizes long-term action aimed at energy efficiency, reduced consumption, and a faster transition to renewable energy sources, all while preserving essential social protections for vulnerable groups. The meeting was attended by CEV President Salvador Navarro, UGT-PV General Secretary Ismael Sáez, and CCOO representative Ana García, among others.
Puig indicated that aid for commerce and hospitality would be announced through the Valencia Institute of Finance and would also feature direct bonuses for enterprises in these sectors. The exact amounts and eligibility requirements will be disclosed in the coming days and are expected to be approved by the Consell in September. In parallel, the regional administration will review data from the Tax Office to identify additional support for workers who, despite being employed, face financial hardship amid high inflation.
Puig highlighted that the goal goes beyond merely enforcing national decrees. The intent is to advance energy efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and accelerate the shift to renewable production capabilities — all while maintaining a robust social safety net for those most in need. The overarching objective is to strengthen the energy transition and ensure long-lasting sustainability with a human-centered approach.
Also in September, the social dialogue desk will address three main pillars: the oversight of agreed plans with employers and unions, including the Resist Plan; preparations for proposals to be included in the 2023 budgets; and energy-related measures. A strategic War Plan is envisaged, with 53 million euros earmarked for upgrades in administration buildings to boost efficiency, funded by European funds. In the City of Arts and Sciences, a projected 30 percent reduction in energy expenditures underscores the potential impact of these efficiency drives.
Meanwhile, social agents stressed the need for stronger management involvement and sustained support for the hospitality and trade sectors so that the productive fabric and citizens can implement the austerity measures approved by the Government and pursue productivity targets from a business perspective. The employers’ association representative noted that the Valencian Community should emphasize its own energy production and pursue a broader, systemic reduction in consumption. Savings and efficiency emerged as central themes in facing the current context.
García emphasized that support for productive sectors and disadvantaged groups is essential, praising the social dialogue that exists in the Valencia region and the regional roadmap toward energy efficiency and energy sovereignty. Sáez added that curbing inflation remains a priority and that the royal decree aims to curb energy consumption to stabilize prices. While awaiting the Generalitat’s final decisions on specific actions, observers remarked that the announced steps are moving in a sound direction for the regional economy and energy policy.