Girona, known for its cultural, architectural and natural wealth, is also a province in which many of its towns are taking important steps towards energy sustainability. In the last decade, towns in the region, such as Besalú, Pals, Cadaqués y Monells have begun to integrate solar energy systems, becoming examples of how tradition and innovation can coexist. Below, we explore some of Girona’s most picturesque villages that are turning to solar energy to preserve their environment and, at the same time, reduce their carbon footprint.
Besalú: Solar energy in a medieval setting
BesalúBesalú, one of the most iconic medieval villages of Girona, is characterized by its Romanesque bridge over the Fluvià river and its cobblestone alleys full of history. With monuments such as the Monastery of Sant Pere and the Jewish MiqvéBesalú attracts thousands of tourists each year. This tourist attraction has prompted the municipality to implement solar energy initiatives, with photovoltaic panels in some of its municipal buildings, ensuring that tourism growth does not compromise the environment. In addition, the town council has promoted clean energy projects, making Besalú a benchmark for sustainability among Girona’s medieval towns.
Pals: Clean energy among rice fields and gothic architecture
Located in the Baix Empordà and surrounded by the famous rice fields, Pals stands out for its gothic architecture, especially the Tower of the Hours and the Church of Sant Pere. This town has begun to implement solar energy installations in both public buildings and private residences, thanks to incentives and subsidies from the town council. Pals combines its commitment to preserving its heritage and landscape with moving towards a more sustainable future by promoting the use of clean energy among its inhabitants. Solar panels in the residential area help reduce CO₂ emissions, preserving the natural and architectural beauty that characterizes this town.
Cadaqués: A town of artists committed to sustainability
Cadaquésfamous for having been the home of Salvador Dalí and his spectacular house-museum in Portlligatis one of the best known towns in Girona and a symbol of the Mediterranean. Surrounded by the Cap de Creus Natural ParkCadaqués has implemented energy policies that support the installation of solar panels on local businesses and homes, especially in the outlying areas of the town center. This approach helps preserve the park’s delicate environment and reduces the tourist impact on the town. Solar energy in Cadaqués allows this jewel of the Costa Brava to remain an inspirational place for artists and tourists, while maintaining its commitment to the environment.
Monells: Tradition and modernity in harmony
Located in the Baix Empordà and famous for its porticoed main square and the stone houses, Monells is another town that has taken steps towards energy transition. Although it is a small town, Monells is committed to sustainable development, promoting solar installations in homes and local businesses, especially in new buildings outside the historic center. This effort is an example of how the more traditional villages of Girona can adapt to the demands of the present without losing their rustic charm and authenticity.
Why solar energy is key to Girona’s preservation
The adoption of solar energy in Girona’s villages allows for a harmonious coexistence between modern growth and the preservation of historical and natural heritage. With clean energy initiatives, these villages not only protect their architectural heritage, but also contribute to the sustainability of tourism, a vital source for the local economy. Visitors touring Besalú, Pals, Cadaqués or Monells can enjoy these villages with the knowledge that their beauty and authenticity are being preserved through renewable energy.
Girona as a benchmark for sustainability in Catalonia
Girona is standing out in Catalonia as a region committed to clean energy and sustainability. With the support of grants from the Catalan Energy Institute (ICAEN) and municipal environmental policies, towns and cities in the region have succeeded in developing projects that inspire other localities. Solar energy in Girona not only translates into less dependence on polluting energy sources, but also into long-term protection of its natural environment, such as the Ter river and the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park..
The beauty of Girona’s villages and its commitment to sustainability make this province a model of how tourism, heritage and energy innovation can coexist. The installation of solar energy in Besalú, Pals, Cadaqués and Monells is just the beginning of a transformation that will benefit both residents and visitors, allowing these towns to remain jewels of Catalonia and benchmarks in the use of clean energy.
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