Catalonia and its capital Barcelona have a strong and growing energy sector. Barcelona has become a major hub for energy companies in Spain and has the largest concentration of renewable energy firms in the country. The city has strong infrastructure supporting the sector, including the 22@Barcelona innovation district, universities conducting energy research, and industry networking organizations like the Barcelona Chamber of Commerce. Catalonia also benefits from supportive regional policies promoting renewable resources, energy efficiency, and new energy infrastructure projects.
The document discusses the biotechnology sector in Barcelona and Catalonia, Spain. It highlights that Barcelona and Catalonia have a large biotechnology presence due to:
1) Major national and foreign pharmaceutical companies being located there.
2) A network of cutting-edge hospitals that collaborate closely with biotech companies through clinical trials and research.
3) Talented biotech workforce and supportive environment for entrepreneurship, innovation, and new company creation.
The document discusses the media sector in Barcelona and Catalonia. It provides 10 reasons why the media sector is favorable in the region, including:
1) It is a powerful sector that represents 5% of employment and 4% of GDP in Catalonia.
2) Universities and research centers attract and train talent, with over 300,000 students studying relevant fields.
3) Top facilities like Parc Barcelona Media are being constructed, which will be a hub for collaboration between companies, universities, and citizens focused on innovation in the media sector.
The document summarizes the 22@ Barcelona Plan for transforming 200 hectares of former industrial land in Barcelona's city center into an innovative district focused on knowledge-intensive activities. Key points include:
- Creating new areas for businesses, housing, green space and amenities to improve quality of life and the workplace.
- Establishing the area as a center for science, technology and culture to make Barcelona one of the world's most dynamic cities.
- Fostering collaboration between professionals, institutions, residents and organizations in the district.
- Adapting the old industrial area over 20 years through a new dense, diverse and flexible city model that balances uses.
The document provides information about the ICT sector in Barcelona and Catalonia. It discusses 10 reasons to invest in ICT in the region, including Barcelona's position as a digital city with high ICT penetration rates, the concentration of over 1,700 ICT companies in the area, and the availability of infrastructure, innovation networks, and knowledge generation centers to support the sector. It also highlights the culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, public institution support for ICT promotion, important ICT projects, future sector potential, and the culture of networking and adaptation to change that make Barcelona an attractive location for ICT investment.
The Ciutat Vella district of Barcelona underwent major regeneration from the 1970s-2000s to address urban decay and social issues. [1] Key aspects of the regeneration included developing cultural and university facilities, restoring historic buildings, creating new public spaces, renovating infrastructure, and increasing housing and economic activity through restoration initiatives and strategic plans. [2] Ongoing challenges include preventing gentrification, achieving social cohesion, and promoting diversity and community participation in planning. [3] Barcelona continues working towards sustainability and quality of life through approaches like superblocks that improve public space, mobility, and urban biodiversity.
Catalonia and Barcelona have become an important economic hub in Europe due to its highly qualified workforce, strategic geographic location, and top-notch infrastructure. The design sector is a key industry for Barcelona and Catalonia, as the region is home to many of Spain's largest design companies and universities, as well as professional design associations. Barcelona offers a variety of advantages for companies, including its location, transportation network, large economic region, successful foreign investment, international recognition, skilled human resources, high quality of life, and major urban development projects, making it an attractive place to invest in the design sector.
Catalonia and its capital Barcelona have become an important economic hub in Europe, driven by a highly skilled workforce, strategic location, and top-notch infrastructure. Barcelona is consolidating its position as one of Europe's principal metropolises and focuses on innovative, strategic sectors like Media. The Media sector is a key sector for Barcelona and Catalonia due to the presence of major Spanish producers and businesses headquartered in the city, making it a benchmark for Media development and exploitation in Spain.
1. The document analyzes the economic indicators and trends of municipalities surrounding the B-30 toll-free motorway in Barcelona.
2. Knowledge-intensive companies in the area are concentrated in Terrassa, Sabadell-Barberà-Cerdanyola, and Sant Cugat. Knowledge-intensive manufacturing is located at both ends of the B-30 motorway.
3. The B-30 area accounts for around half of R&D spending, a quarter of patents, and a fifth of scientific articles in the broader Barcelona region, reflecting the role of universities in driving innovation in the region.
The document discusses the biotechnology sector in Barcelona and Catalonia, Spain. It highlights that Barcelona and Catalonia have a large biotechnology presence due to:
1) Major national and foreign pharmaceutical companies being located there.
2) A network of cutting-edge hospitals that collaborate closely with biotech companies through clinical trials and research.
3) Talented biotech workforce and supportive environment for entrepreneurship, innovation, and new company creation.
The document discusses the media sector in Barcelona and Catalonia. It provides 10 reasons why the media sector is favorable in the region, including:
1) It is a powerful sector that represents 5% of employment and 4% of GDP in Catalonia.
2) Universities and research centers attract and train talent, with over 300,000 students studying relevant fields.
3) Top facilities like Parc Barcelona Media are being constructed, which will be a hub for collaboration between companies, universities, and citizens focused on innovation in the media sector.
The document summarizes the 22@ Barcelona Plan for transforming 200 hectares of former industrial land in Barcelona's city center into an innovative district focused on knowledge-intensive activities. Key points include:
- Creating new areas for businesses, housing, green space and amenities to improve quality of life and the workplace.
- Establishing the area as a center for science, technology and culture to make Barcelona one of the world's most dynamic cities.
- Fostering collaboration between professionals, institutions, residents and organizations in the district.
- Adapting the old industrial area over 20 years through a new dense, diverse and flexible city model that balances uses.
The document provides information about the ICT sector in Barcelona and Catalonia. It discusses 10 reasons to invest in ICT in the region, including Barcelona's position as a digital city with high ICT penetration rates, the concentration of over 1,700 ICT companies in the area, and the availability of infrastructure, innovation networks, and knowledge generation centers to support the sector. It also highlights the culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, public institution support for ICT promotion, important ICT projects, future sector potential, and the culture of networking and adaptation to change that make Barcelona an attractive location for ICT investment.
The Ciutat Vella district of Barcelona underwent major regeneration from the 1970s-2000s to address urban decay and social issues. [1] Key aspects of the regeneration included developing cultural and university facilities, restoring historic buildings, creating new public spaces, renovating infrastructure, and increasing housing and economic activity through restoration initiatives and strategic plans. [2] Ongoing challenges include preventing gentrification, achieving social cohesion, and promoting diversity and community participation in planning. [3] Barcelona continues working towards sustainability and quality of life through approaches like superblocks that improve public space, mobility, and urban biodiversity.
Catalonia and Barcelona have become an important economic hub in Europe due to its highly qualified workforce, strategic geographic location, and top-notch infrastructure. The design sector is a key industry for Barcelona and Catalonia, as the region is home to many of Spain's largest design companies and universities, as well as professional design associations. Barcelona offers a variety of advantages for companies, including its location, transportation network, large economic region, successful foreign investment, international recognition, skilled human resources, high quality of life, and major urban development projects, making it an attractive place to invest in the design sector.
Catalonia and its capital Barcelona have become an important economic hub in Europe, driven by a highly skilled workforce, strategic location, and top-notch infrastructure. Barcelona is consolidating its position as one of Europe's principal metropolises and focuses on innovative, strategic sectors like Media. The Media sector is a key sector for Barcelona and Catalonia due to the presence of major Spanish producers and businesses headquartered in the city, making it a benchmark for Media development and exploitation in Spain.
1. The document analyzes the economic indicators and trends of municipalities surrounding the B-30 toll-free motorway in Barcelona.
2. Knowledge-intensive companies in the area are concentrated in Terrassa, Sabadell-Barberà-Cerdanyola, and Sant Cugat. Knowledge-intensive manufacturing is located at both ends of the B-30 motorway.
3. The B-30 area accounts for around half of R&D spending, a quarter of patents, and a fifth of scientific articles in the broader Barcelona region, reflecting the role of universities in driving innovation in the region.
Barcelona is one of the largest urban areas in Europe, with over 1.6 million residents in the city and nearly 5 million in the surrounding metropolitan area. The city is diverse and cosmopolitan, with around 18% of residents being foreign citizens. Barcelona has a knowledge-based economy and is a leader in Spain in areas like entrepreneurship, innovation, and exports. It also has a strong tourism industry and is a top destination for trade fairs and conferences.
The document summarizes the Smart City Expo World Congress (SCEWC), which is described as the world's leading event for the smart city industry. SCEWC brings together urban representatives, thought leaders, businesses, and investors to share knowledge and do business related to smart cities. It features exhibitions, presentations, workshops and awards. The 2015 event was to take place from November 17-19 in Barcelona, Spain and include keynote speeches, panel discussions, and demonstrations of smart city solutions.
Barcelona Growth Agency aims to promote Barcelona as a city oriented towards economic and business growth. It brings together public and private representatives to coordinate policies and measures to develop the city over the next few years. The agency provides companies access to Barcelona's resources and strengths, such as its internationally recognized brand, economic open data, talent pool, and facilities like the MediaTic building and free zone for starting businesses without taxes. It offers a one-stop-shop for companies to easily access services, funding, and support settling in Barcelona. The goal is to position Barcelona as the best environment for companies' economic and business growth.
The document summarizes information about the B30 area, a 50 km stretch of road running through 23 municipalities in the Barcelona-Lyon mega-region of Spain. It discusses the B30 area's role as an economic driver with over 1 million people, 30,000+ companies, and high levels of innovation including many research centers and universities. The goal is to map out a strategy for cooperation between different stakeholders to further develop the B30 area's industrial and technological potential and transition to a more sustainable, post-carbon economy.
Barcelona is a dynamic economic center in Spain and Europe, with over 1.6 million inhabitants in the city and 5 million in the surrounding metropolitan region. It has a diverse economy focused on business services, real estate, collective services, industry, and retail. Barcelona promotes strategic industries like media, ICT, biotech, and design, and is a leader in research and innovation with many universities and creative/knowledge workers. The city has over 450,000 companies, mainly SMEs, and a low startup time of just 48 hours, demonstrating its flexibility and entrepreneurial spirit.
Presentation 22@Barcelona The Innovation District22arrobabcn
22@Barcelona is an innovation district in Barcelona that was established on former industrial land. It aims to transition the area into a center for knowledge-based industries and economic activity. The district promotes clusters of firms in fields like media, ICT, bioscience, energy, and design. It provides infrastructure, talent programs, and an urban environment to support company growth and innovation through collaboration between universities, industry, and government.
Barcelona-Catalonia: The Mediterranean Innovation HubMiqui Mel
Barcelona-Catalonia is the commitment of the Government of Catalonia -through Incasòl- and
the Barcelona City Council to promote strategic new projects. Its aim is to obtain a new city model
related to the knowledge economy, positioning Barcelona and Catalonia as innovation hubs with
powerful knowledge centers and intensive mobility infrastructures.
Source: Barcelona-Catalonia.
Data: October 2012.
Revista Econòmica de Catalunya nº 64: Knowledge Economy and TerritoryBarcelona Activa
The current issue of the Revista Econòmica de Catalunya, published together with the Col·legi d'Economistes, is dedicated to the 22@district in its 10th anniversary.
The document provides information about the ICT sector in Barcelona, highlighting 10 strong points:
1. Barcelona is a leader in ICT take-up in Southern Europe, with higher rates of adoption than Spain and EU averages.
2. Barcelona has extensive ICT infrastructure, including a fiber optic network, corporate network, and municipal Wi-Fi network.
3. The ICT sector is concentrated in Barcelona, with over 2,150 ICT companies, 210 technology parks, and research facilities.
22@ Barcelona is a project that aims to fully integrate Barcelona in the new technological revolution of the knowledge economy. The Poblenou district, the main hub of Spanish industrialization during the 19th century, is today setting itself up as the leading economic and technological platform in Barcelona and Catalonia.
http://socratesarchitects.com
This document discusses reasons to invest in the design sector in Barcelona and Catalonia. It highlights Barcelona's large-scale design projects, concentration of design talent and associations, role as a model for accessibility, strength in retail, hotels, and restaurants, strong design training and management, and supportive design system and policies. Barcelona is positioned as a leader in the global design industry and an attractive location for design firms and students.
22@ Barcelona 2000-2015: Barcelona's innovation districtBarcelona Activa
This report presents an evaluation of the milestones reached in Barcelona's 22@ innovation district from the moment of its conception and implementation up until the present.
The Design sector is a strategic industry for Barcelona and Catalonia. Barcelona has a large concentration of design talent and companies, top training programs in design, and supports the sector through large projects and associations. The region has become a European hub for design due to its accessible city model, integration of design in commerce and hospitality, and reputation as a center for corporate design centers and innovation.
Barcelona is a major economic hub in Europe located in Spain. It has a population of over 1.6 million people and its metropolitan region has a population of nearly 5 million, representing 10.2% of Spain's total population. Barcelona has a diverse economy driven by sectors like education, health, commerce, tourism, and technology. It is an international city with 16.3% of residents being foreign nationals. The city and region have strong economic growth and GDP per capita above the EU average.
Puertollano is a city in Spain that is focused on investment and economic development. It has a large industrial area and workforce specialized in energy and new technologies. Puertollano offers benefits such as a strategic location, excellent infrastructure, high-level training programs, incentives for investment, and support for projects in renewable energies and new technologies. The city has industrial parks and is transforming to attract more investment while maintaining a high quality of life for residents.
Barcelona is strongly committed to design as one of its strategic sectors, it being a driving force behind the economy, knowledge, innovation and entrepreneurship. Design has become a key feature in the strategies of companies, organizations and public bodies. Being different, innovative and competitive in a globalized world that demands the integration of sustainable criteria calls for successful design management.
Barcelona is a major economic center in Europe with over 1.6 million inhabitants. It has a diverse economy focused on services, industry, trade, and emerging sectors like biotechnology and renewable energy. Barcelona attracts entrepreneurs and foreign investment due to its highly educated workforce, world-class universities, and high quality of life. It is also a global leader in tourism, hosting over 6 million visitors annually for its conferences, trade shows, and cultural and natural attractions.
Puertollano is positioning itself as a leader in renewable energy and clean technologies. It has established industrial areas focused on solar, wind, and biofuel industries. Puertollano offers business incentives, a skilled workforce, and excellent transportation links by rail, road and airport to attract investment in these emerging sectors. Major companies have already located plants for solar panel and thermosolar power production, and research centers are developing new concentration photovoltaic and hydrogen technologies.
Leaders Study Program , London 2014-
Leaders Pecha Kucha (Lightening Talks) What makes a Visionary Development ? - Learning from innovations in Design, Strategy & Development in London.About: The Urban Vision- Leader Network will connect the most influential urban leaders to each other and to revolutionary city building & design concepts. Our annual leaders retreat explores innovations in design and policy in some of the world's great cities. Apply Now : http://bit.ly/tuvleaders
The document discusses the relationship between architecture, art, and engineering. It argues that architecture is more than just engineering and that art can enhance architecture by creating identity and attracting public attention. Several examples of architectural projects are given where integrated public art strengthened the building and its connection to the community. The document suggests that art should be incorporated early in the planning process and can help solve problems by making a space more engaging and meaningful.
Barcelona is one of the largest urban areas in Europe, with over 1.6 million residents in the city and nearly 5 million in the surrounding metropolitan area. The city is diverse and cosmopolitan, with around 18% of residents being foreign citizens. Barcelona has a knowledge-based economy and is a leader in Spain in areas like entrepreneurship, innovation, and exports. It also has a strong tourism industry and is a top destination for trade fairs and conferences.
The document summarizes the Smart City Expo World Congress (SCEWC), which is described as the world's leading event for the smart city industry. SCEWC brings together urban representatives, thought leaders, businesses, and investors to share knowledge and do business related to smart cities. It features exhibitions, presentations, workshops and awards. The 2015 event was to take place from November 17-19 in Barcelona, Spain and include keynote speeches, panel discussions, and demonstrations of smart city solutions.
Barcelona Growth Agency aims to promote Barcelona as a city oriented towards economic and business growth. It brings together public and private representatives to coordinate policies and measures to develop the city over the next few years. The agency provides companies access to Barcelona's resources and strengths, such as its internationally recognized brand, economic open data, talent pool, and facilities like the MediaTic building and free zone for starting businesses without taxes. It offers a one-stop-shop for companies to easily access services, funding, and support settling in Barcelona. The goal is to position Barcelona as the best environment for companies' economic and business growth.
The document summarizes information about the B30 area, a 50 km stretch of road running through 23 municipalities in the Barcelona-Lyon mega-region of Spain. It discusses the B30 area's role as an economic driver with over 1 million people, 30,000+ companies, and high levels of innovation including many research centers and universities. The goal is to map out a strategy for cooperation between different stakeholders to further develop the B30 area's industrial and technological potential and transition to a more sustainable, post-carbon economy.
Barcelona is a dynamic economic center in Spain and Europe, with over 1.6 million inhabitants in the city and 5 million in the surrounding metropolitan region. It has a diverse economy focused on business services, real estate, collective services, industry, and retail. Barcelona promotes strategic industries like media, ICT, biotech, and design, and is a leader in research and innovation with many universities and creative/knowledge workers. The city has over 450,000 companies, mainly SMEs, and a low startup time of just 48 hours, demonstrating its flexibility and entrepreneurial spirit.
Presentation 22@Barcelona The Innovation District22arrobabcn
22@Barcelona is an innovation district in Barcelona that was established on former industrial land. It aims to transition the area into a center for knowledge-based industries and economic activity. The district promotes clusters of firms in fields like media, ICT, bioscience, energy, and design. It provides infrastructure, talent programs, and an urban environment to support company growth and innovation through collaboration between universities, industry, and government.
Barcelona-Catalonia: The Mediterranean Innovation HubMiqui Mel
Barcelona-Catalonia is the commitment of the Government of Catalonia -through Incasòl- and
the Barcelona City Council to promote strategic new projects. Its aim is to obtain a new city model
related to the knowledge economy, positioning Barcelona and Catalonia as innovation hubs with
powerful knowledge centers and intensive mobility infrastructures.
Source: Barcelona-Catalonia.
Data: October 2012.
Revista Econòmica de Catalunya nº 64: Knowledge Economy and TerritoryBarcelona Activa
The current issue of the Revista Econòmica de Catalunya, published together with the Col·legi d'Economistes, is dedicated to the 22@district in its 10th anniversary.
The document provides information about the ICT sector in Barcelona, highlighting 10 strong points:
1. Barcelona is a leader in ICT take-up in Southern Europe, with higher rates of adoption than Spain and EU averages.
2. Barcelona has extensive ICT infrastructure, including a fiber optic network, corporate network, and municipal Wi-Fi network.
3. The ICT sector is concentrated in Barcelona, with over 2,150 ICT companies, 210 technology parks, and research facilities.
22@ Barcelona is a project that aims to fully integrate Barcelona in the new technological revolution of the knowledge economy. The Poblenou district, the main hub of Spanish industrialization during the 19th century, is today setting itself up as the leading economic and technological platform in Barcelona and Catalonia.
http://socratesarchitects.com
This document discusses reasons to invest in the design sector in Barcelona and Catalonia. It highlights Barcelona's large-scale design projects, concentration of design talent and associations, role as a model for accessibility, strength in retail, hotels, and restaurants, strong design training and management, and supportive design system and policies. Barcelona is positioned as a leader in the global design industry and an attractive location for design firms and students.
22@ Barcelona 2000-2015: Barcelona's innovation districtBarcelona Activa
This report presents an evaluation of the milestones reached in Barcelona's 22@ innovation district from the moment of its conception and implementation up until the present.
The Design sector is a strategic industry for Barcelona and Catalonia. Barcelona has a large concentration of design talent and companies, top training programs in design, and supports the sector through large projects and associations. The region has become a European hub for design due to its accessible city model, integration of design in commerce and hospitality, and reputation as a center for corporate design centers and innovation.
Barcelona is a major economic hub in Europe located in Spain. It has a population of over 1.6 million people and its metropolitan region has a population of nearly 5 million, representing 10.2% of Spain's total population. Barcelona has a diverse economy driven by sectors like education, health, commerce, tourism, and technology. It is an international city with 16.3% of residents being foreign nationals. The city and region have strong economic growth and GDP per capita above the EU average.
Puertollano is a city in Spain that is focused on investment and economic development. It has a large industrial area and workforce specialized in energy and new technologies. Puertollano offers benefits such as a strategic location, excellent infrastructure, high-level training programs, incentives for investment, and support for projects in renewable energies and new technologies. The city has industrial parks and is transforming to attract more investment while maintaining a high quality of life for residents.
Barcelona is strongly committed to design as one of its strategic sectors, it being a driving force behind the economy, knowledge, innovation and entrepreneurship. Design has become a key feature in the strategies of companies, organizations and public bodies. Being different, innovative and competitive in a globalized world that demands the integration of sustainable criteria calls for successful design management.
Barcelona is a major economic center in Europe with over 1.6 million inhabitants. It has a diverse economy focused on services, industry, trade, and emerging sectors like biotechnology and renewable energy. Barcelona attracts entrepreneurs and foreign investment due to its highly educated workforce, world-class universities, and high quality of life. It is also a global leader in tourism, hosting over 6 million visitors annually for its conferences, trade shows, and cultural and natural attractions.
Puertollano is positioning itself as a leader in renewable energy and clean technologies. It has established industrial areas focused on solar, wind, and biofuel industries. Puertollano offers business incentives, a skilled workforce, and excellent transportation links by rail, road and airport to attract investment in these emerging sectors. Major companies have already located plants for solar panel and thermosolar power production, and research centers are developing new concentration photovoltaic and hydrogen technologies.
Leaders Study Program , London 2014-
Leaders Pecha Kucha (Lightening Talks) What makes a Visionary Development ? - Learning from innovations in Design, Strategy & Development in London.About: The Urban Vision- Leader Network will connect the most influential urban leaders to each other and to revolutionary city building & design concepts. Our annual leaders retreat explores innovations in design and policy in some of the world's great cities. Apply Now : http://bit.ly/tuvleaders
The document discusses the relationship between architecture, art, and engineering. It argues that architecture is more than just engineering and that art can enhance architecture by creating identity and attracting public attention. Several examples of architectural projects are given where integrated public art strengthened the building and its connection to the community. The document suggests that art should be incorporated early in the planning process and can help solve problems by making a space more engaging and meaningful.
This document summarizes a seminar on health and wellbeing in the built environment. It discusses how more than 80% of people in urban areas are exposed to air pollution above WHO limits, with impacts especially high in low-income cities. It also notes that poor indoor air quality, lack of access to nature, and mismatched circadian rhythms negatively impact human health. The wellness industry is growing as workplaces and consumers focus more on health. Standards like WELL aim to formalize integrating wellbeing into building design, but certification comes with costs that must be weighed against potential benefits such as lower absenteeism and higher productivity.
This document discusses how public spaces like squares, parks, and waterfront areas shape cities. It also mentions streets, avenues, and street furniture as basic urban elements that contribute to the public realm and help define a city's character.
Public social housing examples in Madrid include buildings in Sanchinarro and Carabanchel. In Sanchinarro, two notable examples are the Mirador and Celosía buildings designed by MVRdV office with Blanca Lleó. Some of the best social housing in Madrid can be found in examples in Carabanchel. Madrid has experienced rapid population growth over the 20th century, from around 500,000 in 1900 to over 3 million currently, and the city's urban growth has largely followed a concentric pattern extending from the historic core.
The document discusses the biotechnology sector in Barcelona and Catalonia. It notes that the region has an important presence of national and foreign pharmaceutical companies, as well as a network of hospitals at the cutting edge of clinical research and collaboration with companies. It also highlights the talent in the biotechnology sector and favorable environment for entrepreneurship, research, and innovation. The document provides details on several research centers, technology parks, and industry clusters that support the biotechnology sector in the region.
Catalonia and Barcelona have become an important economic hub in Europe due to its highly qualified workforce, strategic geographic location, and top-notch infrastructure. The Design sector is a key industry for Barcelona and Catalonia, as the region is home to many of Spain's top design companies and universities, as well as professional design associations. Barcelona offers a variety of advantages for companies, including its location, transportation network, large economic region, successful foreign investment, international recognition, skilled human resources, and high quality of life. Major urban projects also aim to further boost sectors like logistics, sustainability, and research.
ICT Information and Communications Technologies in Barcelona and CataloniaBarcelona Business
Catalonia, with its capital Barcelona, has established itself as a major economic hub in Europe due to its highly qualified workforce, strategic geographic location, and top-notch infrastructure. The Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) sector in particular has become a key driver of the Barcelona and Catalonian economy, supported by the concentration of ICT companies, availability of infrastructure and innovation networks, and centers of ICT knowledge generation. This dossier highlights the strengths of Barcelona and Catalonia for companies looking to invest and grow in the thriving ICT sector.
The energy sector in Barcelona and Catalonia is an important economic driver for the region. Barcelona has become a leader in Spain for renewable energy and sustainability initiatives. Several factors contribute to Barcelona's prominence in energy, including strong promotion of renewable technologies, a focus on energy efficiency, new infrastructure projects, and large energy companies headquartered in Catalonia. Research and manufacturing related to energy also help make the sector a major part of the regional economy.
The document discusses the higher education sector in Barcelona, Spain. It notes that Barcelona and Catalonia have positioned themselves as international benchmarks in higher education, bringing together 12 universities, top business schools, and over 30 international schools offering over 500 master's and postgraduate programs to over 233,000 students. This wide-ranging higher education sector has meant that 36.9% of Catalonia's population now has a university degree, higher than the European average. The document highlights Barcelona's strategic location, transportation infrastructure, diverse economy, human resources prepared for the future, quality of life, and large-scale urban planning projects as reasons for investing in higher education in the city.
The mission will send 38 Catalan companies in biotech, food/drink, tourism and automotive industries from Barcelona to Shanghai and Hong Kong from March 25-31, 2017 to source common projects with companies in those regions. The president of Catalonia hopes to strengthen business and commercial ties between Catalonia and China by sharing Catalonia's commitment to innovation, industries, culture and entrepreneurship. Several Catalan companies will participate in sectors like food/drink, medical devices, and tourism to meet potential importers, distributors, and partners.
The food industry in Barcelona and Catalonia is an important economic sector. Catalonia leads Spain in food production, accounting for 23% of total sales. Barcelona plays a key role and has positioned itself as a benchmark region for the food and beverage industry. The sector generates over 78,500 jobs and 20.5% of employment in the Spanish food industry. Barcelona offers food companies opportunities to identify trends, develop innovations, and access major trade fairs, positioning it as a center for the industry.
The agri-food industry is very important to Catalonia and Barcelona's economy. It accounts for 15.7% of all net sales in Catalan industry and employs 78,100 people, representing 20.4% of total employment in the industry in Spain. Barcelona has close ties to the agri-food industry, with 10,000 jobs and 370 companies located there. The main branches are other food products, beverages, dairy, and meat industries. Catalonia and Barcelona are a benchmark for the agri-food industry due to the large cluster of companies, research centers, and trade shows that drive innovation in the sector.
Barcelona-Catalonia - The Mediterranean Innovation Hub 2013Miqui Mel
The Mediterranean Innovation Hub in Barcelona, Catalonia focuses on developing 12 strategic projects to promote innovation and economic growth through knowledge industries and infrastructure development. The projects total over 7 million square meters and aim to generate over 200,000 new jobs. Key projects include the Barcelona-Sagrera railway hub development, the Parc de l'Alba science and research campus, and the smart city campus 22@ in Barcelona.
Barcelona has maintained a solid competitive position among top European cities despite the global economic recession. In 2009, Barcelona recovered its position as the fourth best city for businesses in Europe. It also remained the top city for quality of life for workers and made the most progress. The city is dealing with the recession through high investment, support for companies and job creation, and maintaining its long-term strategy for a new economic growth model based on knowledge, creativity, innovation and sustainability. Proactive measures by the city have helped it weather the difficult economic circumstances.
Barcelona is an open, tolerant, and cosmopolitan city that is reinventing itself with a focus on the future through urban and economic transformation projects. It is consolidating its position as a major business hub in Europe due to its quality of life, cultural offerings, educated workforce, and focus on innovation. The guide provides an overview of Barcelona's strengths for foreign investment and doing business, including its growing innovative and creative industries, connectivity through transportation infrastructure projects, and balanced environment for both work and life.
Barcelona is a major economic center in Europe with a population of over 1.6 million people. It has a diverse economy focused on business services, real estate, collective services, and industry. Barcelona also has a strong knowledge economy, with 30% of companies and 48.4% of workers employed in knowledge-intensive sectors. It is a leader in tourism, trade fairs, and retail and known for its high quality of life and international prestige.
Barcelona is a leading economic center with a diverse and knowledge-based economy. It has over 1.6 million residents and is part of a larger metropolitan region of over 5 million people. Barcelona has a highly educated workforce, strong industry and trade sectors, and is a top destination for tourism, business, and international events. The city promotes innovation and is ranked highly for its quality of life.
Catalonia is located in northeastern Spain with an area of 32,106 square kilometers and a population of 7.3 million people. It has a dynamic economy that represents 20% of Spain's GDP and 30% of exports despite comprising only 16% of the population. Catalonia has a talented, creative workforce and is a leader in sectors like ICT due to its 11 competitive hubs, over 80 technology centers, and hosting of major companies like Telefonica, IBM and Microsoft. The Catalan government promotes innovation through initiatives like idigital and Barcelona's designation as the Mobile World Capital to stimulate economic growth through mobile and digital technologies.
Basque Country - Innovation and Excellence - NEWSWEEKSuzanna Howse
The document provides an overview of the Basque Country region of northern Spain. It summarizes that the Basque Country:
- Has its own unique language and culture that distinguishes it from the rest of Spain
- Has a strong industrial economy focused on manufacturing, with sectors like aeronautics, energy, and healthcare technologies
- Has experienced economic success through long-term investment in industry and innovation, and policies that support clusters and cooperation between businesses
The government of cospedal and eoi injected 7.5 million for our companies to ...vosprl15
The Government of Castilla-La Mancha and the School of Industrial Organization (EOI) signed an agreement to provide 7.5 million euros across two programs called "Castilla-La Mancha Entrepreneurial Region" and "Centers of Excellence" to make businesses more innovative and competitive. The first program provides 5 million euros for courses to support 1,500 young entrepreneurs, while the second allocates 2.5 million euros to develop innovation centers focused on sectors like sustainable development, food, and aerospace across seven cities in the region. The funding aims to increase the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship among citizens.
Economic Development Agency ha publicado Paterna R & D, una completa revista de las empresas de investigación y desarrollo más relevantes del ciudad de Paterna.
The 22@ Barcelona project transformed obsolete industrial zones in Poblenou into an innovation district combining residential, commercial, and academic spaces. Over the past 10 years:
- Urban development covered 198 hectares, with 4 million square meters planned for businesses and facilities and 4,000 new housing units.
- 117 development plans were approved, bringing 2.8 million square meters of new space.
- The population grew by 16,750 to over 90,000 as new housing and economic activity attracted residents.
- 7,000 businesses moved in, bringing over 56,000 new jobs to the area.
The document reports that Barcelona has seen economic recovery in 2010 and maintained its strong international positioning, while continuing efforts to transition towards a knowledge-based economy through major projects like 22@ and the Barcelona Economic Triangle. Barcelona coordinates joint actions between public and private stakeholders to consolidate its brand and competitiveness. It also benefits from cooperation between different levels of government through instruments like the Barcelona Strategic Metropolitan Plan 2020.
This document is a catalogue of Catalan companies and technology centers attending Mobile World Congress 2016 in Barcelona. It provides information on over 200 Catalan exhibitors, including their industry sectors which are mainly in information and communication technologies. Some key sectors represented are mobile apps, IoT, augmented reality, cloud computing, and geolocation. The catalog highlights Catalonia's strong position in the mobile technologies sector and its role as the Mobile World Capital from 2012-2023, which has helped attract investment and create an innovation ecosystem in Barcelona.
This document provides an overview of several parks projects in Vancouver from August 2018, including Ken Spencer Science Park, Underpass Park, Southeast False Creek Plaza, Hastings Park, and Moodyville Park. It discusses the design and features of Hastings Park, including its history and transformation over time with the addition of areas like Empire Fields, Windermere Hill, and the Italian Rain Gardens. The document also presents images showing Empire Fields before and after the installation of a temporary stadium.
This document provides information on several parks in Vancouver including Science Park, Underpass Park, Southeast False Creek Plaza, Hastings Park, and Moodyville Park. It discusses the history and intentions for Hastings Park from its establishment in 1889. It also shows images of different areas within Hastings Park over time, including before, during, and plans after a temporary stadium. The document emphasizes the regional, national, and international significance of Vancouver's parks.
The Downtown Vancouver Business Improvement Association (DVBIA) was established in 1990 to represent over 8,000 members across a 90 square-block area of downtown Vancouver. With an annual budget of $3.5 million CAD, the DVBIA is governed by a 15-member board and works to champion an unmatched urban experience through placemaking, beautification, marketing, and ensuring downtown Vancouver is walkable, bikeable, and welcoming for all.
The document summarizes the Grand Paris Express infrastructure project in Paris from 2009-2018. It describes President Sarkozy's vision for improving transportation and urban development in Greater Paris through a new metro network. A dedicated company, Société du Grand Paris, was created to oversee the project. The network will include over 200km of new lines and 68 stations. Challenges include complex construction, geology, and costs that have doubled from initial estimates to over €35 billion. Recent developments under new administration of Macron maintain the full project scope but prioritize segments for the 2024 Olympics.
The Max Weber University of Nanterre building features a simple aluminum exterior but an unusual interior with considerable amounts of exposed wood structures. The building uses a wooden structure and raw concrete floors to provide thermal mass for comfortable temperatures. It was designed with flexibility in mind to adapt to future laboratory needs through its spatial organization and network cavities in the wood ceilings. The building has a passive envelope with a unique natural ventilation system driven by large vertical networks and chimneys instead of mechanical ventilation.
BNP Paribas Asset Management takes corporate sustainability into account in its investment decisions through a comprehensive approach that includes:
1) Integrating environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into investment analysis and decisions across all strategies.
2) Conducting in-depth ESG research on over 11,500 companies, including quantitative scoring and qualitative analysis of material sustainability issues.
3) Engaging with companies through voting and stewardship to encourage sustainable practices and better ESG performance over the long term.
4) Taking a forward-looking perspective by monitoring portfolio alignment with global sustainability goals and climate scenarios.
The document discusses a meeting agenda focused on sustainable finance. The agenda includes welcoming remarks, a presentation on a leaders study program, presentations from clients on digital twin solutions for construction and sustainable finance transactions in real estate, construction and social housing. It also includes an investor view on corporate ESG strategies and a presentation on MovinOn. The document notes that all work is currently hypothetical and requires confidentiality.
This document discusses factors that contribute to individual and community happiness. It explores how social connections, trust, and nature influence well-being. Experiments show that urban design can physically and emotionally impact residents. Features like active sidewalks, green spaces, and shared common areas in housing may foster social bonds and increase happiness. The document advocates using evidence-based design to create healthier, more convivial places.
This document summarizes urban planning strategies in Paris, including projects to develop a more sustainable city. It discusses the creation of the Grand Paris metropolitan area and strategies to promote social housing, mobility, climate adaptation, and renewable energy. Specific projects highlighted include Clichy-Batignolles, Porte de Montreuil, and the Reinventing Paris initiative, which support mixed-use development, environmental excellence, and urban innovation.
This document discusses reimagining cities from a woman's perspective to make them safer and more inclusive. It outlines 10 principles for a woman-friendly city, including creating 24/7 urban environments through mixed-use development, having "eyes on the street" through human-scale architecture, and prioritizing pedestrian infrastructure and public transportation to improve walkability and accessibility. The principles aim to inform urban planning and policies to enhance safety for women and vulnerable groups.
The document discusses Archimedes' principle of buoyancy, which states that the buoyant force on a submerged object equals the weight of the fluid that the object displaces. Specifically, it notes that a submerged body displaces 7.100 km^3 of fluid and that Archimedes stated buoyancy corresponds to the weight of the displaced fluid.
Søren Hansen is a project director at Ramboll, an engineering consultancy, specializing in urban development strategies, master planning, and transportation planning. Ramboll has over 13,000 experts working across 35 countries. Hansen discusses Ramboll's work on smart, sustainable cities and liveable urban planning. He uses Copenhagen as a case study, highlighting projects like Nordhavn, a nominated "world's best masterplan," and Copenhagen's cloudburst management plan to mitigate flooding. Hansen emphasizes the importance of holistic, climate-responsive urban planning and public engagement to create highly liveable cities.
This document discusses the role of architecture and urban planning in contributing to sustainable development. It addresses several trends such as globalization, migration, urbanization, and climate change that are impacting both global and local communities. At the local level in Malmo, issues discussed include housing shortages, segregation, and meeting climate goals. The document advocates for a holistic approach to architecture that focuses on social inclusion, health, and democracy. It promotes the idea of actively influencing challenges and being part of solution through leadership, cooperation, regional integration, and creating attractive, climate-smart, and socially cohesive communities.
Peter Andreas Sattrup is an architect and senior advisor on sustainability at the Danish Association of Architectural Firms. The document discusses sustainability in architecture and highlights several case studies of Danish building projects that demonstrate benefits related to health, social cohesion, urban life, climate, resources, and economics. It emphasizes the importance of considering sustainability across the entire lifecycle of buildings and communities.
The document discusses Copenhagen's extensive bicycle infrastructure network, which includes bicycle lanes on roads, green bicycle tracks, super bicycle highways, and bridges with bicycle lanes. It provides details on several bicycle bridges in Copenhagen, including the Creek Arch, Quay Bridge, and Bicycle Snake, listing their lengths, widths, completion dates, and total costs. The document focuses on Copenhagen's leadership in developing bicycle infrastructure to promote cycling as a primary mode of transportation.
Jan Gehl is a Danish architect who pioneered the field of urban design focused on improving public spaces and making cities more people-friendly and livable. Over the past 50 years, he has consulted on urban design projects in many cities around the world. His research and public space surveys have helped shift planning priorities from cars to pedestrians. Many cities like Copenhagen, Melbourne, and New York have implemented his recommendations to create more walkable and bikeable streets and public spaces that improve quality of life.
Krøyers Plads is a development project located on a prime waterfront site in Copenhagen. The final design incorporates three five-story residential buildings containing 105 apartments total. It is designed to fit contextually with the surrounding historic warehouses along the harbor. The buildings are set back from the waterfront to allow for a public plaza and promenade.
2. 22@Barcelona
www.22barcelona.com
22@Barcelona is one of the strategic
projects of the city of Barcelona. In
the downtown neighbourhood of
Poblenou, a space has been designed
so companies and institutions from
the Media, Medical Technologies, ICT
and energy sectors can interact with
knowledge centres like universities or
R&D centres.
Barcelona Chamber
of Commerce
www.cambrabcn.es
Barcelona Chamber of Commerce
represents companies of the city of
Barcelona. Through its personalised
company services and its actions it
helps promote economic and business
activity in the country and for each of
its companies.
Generalitat de
Catalunya
Catalonia Investment
Agency
www.catalonia.com
With headquarters in Barcelona, an
office in Madrid and branches in New
York and Tokyo, the Catalonia
Investment Agency provides advisory
services and assistance adapted to the
needs of companies interested in
setting up or expanding their facilities
and investments in Catalonia.
Barcelona
City Council
Economic
Promotion
www.bcn.cat/barcelonabusiness
Economic Promotion is a department
of the City Council that is dedicated to
promoting Barcelona as an attractive
place for businesses and helping and
giving support to companies,
professionals and institutions that want
to set up or do businesses in the city.
3. Barcelona and Catalonia 06
10 reasons to invest 08
The energy sector in Barcelona and Catalonia 10
10 reasons in favour of the energy sector 12
01. Promotion of renewable energies 12
02. Energy savings and efficiency 14
03. New energy infrastructures 15
04. Barcelona: a model for a city moving towards sustainability 16
05. Large energy operators in Catalonia 18
06. Businesses backing renewable energies 19
07. A consolidated presence of manufacturers of capital goods
for the energy sector 20
08. A research and development culture 22
09. The Parc de l’Energia: a sector project with a bright future 23
10. The ITER Project in Barcelona 24
Glossary 26
04 05Presentation04 The energy sector in Barcelona and Catalonia
IndexPresentation
Catalonia, and its capital Barcelona, have always been an open, welcoming
land. Over the course of history, many peoples have passed through it, and
almost all have set down roots there. This has made Catalonia a land which is
hospitable, tolerant, dynamic and open to all that is new.
Currently, Catalonia and Barcelona are one of Europe’s leading economic hubs.
The driving force behind the Spanish economy, the Catalonia of the 21st
century is an innovative country boasting a highly-qualified workforce, an
enviable geographic location (in the heart of Europe and connected with the
rest of the world through its Mediterranean port and its international airports)
and world-class infrastructures that attract investments year after year.
It is a pleasure for us to present this economic dossier, which provides an
insight into one of Catalonia’s, and Barcelona’s, leading economic sectors, in
terms of its weight in the economy, its relative weight in comparison with
other European regions and for the support it is receiving from businesses,
universities and research centres: the energy sector. The result of a partnership
between four top institutions in the economy of the city of Barcelona and of
Catalonia, this dossier describes everything that Catalonia, an entrepreneurial
country that is a leader in this sector of the economy, can offer your business.
Please do not hesitate to ask us for any advice on or help with your
investment.
4. 07The energy sector in Barcelona and Catalonia
Barcelona, located on the shores of the
Mediterranean in North-eastern Spain, is a
major European metropolis and lies at the heart
of a large metropolitan area of more than 217
municipalities, home to 4.6 million inhabitants.
It is the economic, cultural and administrative
capital of Catalonia and stands at the head of
an emerging Southern European economic
activity area of more than 17 million inhabitants
and more than 800,000 businesses. This Euro-
Mediterranean region, which includes the
Balearic Island, Valencia, Aragon and South-
eastern France, is focused towards new
strategic, competitive and international sectors,
and is becoming internationally consolidated as
one of Europe’s main metropolises.
Barcelona and Catalonia
06 Barcelona and Catalonia
We can find the basis of economic growth, which has become very relevant in last years,
in a metropolis with a polycentric business structure which is both diversified economically
and that facilitates its role as an incubator of new ideas, companies and products.
When we consider the distribution of the gross added value according to different branches
of activity, Catalonia is, as in the case of industry, the region with most weight in the Spanish
market (25%), and with respect to the service industry it occupies the second position in
the national gross added value generated (18% of the total). In the region, those companies
in industrial sectors with high and medium-high technology content and services based on
knowledge make up 28.55% of the State total.
On the other hand, the index of entrepreneurship in Catalonia for the year 2005 is around
6.1%, a figure which is superior to the Spanish and European averages, according to the
Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM), 2005.
The international economic activity of the area of Barcelona gets a special boost from Fira
trade fair, the Port, the Airport, the Free Trade Consortium, the Consortium of Barcelona
Tourism Board and the new innovation technology districts. In this last aspect, and given
the fact that innovation is the key to developing competitiveness, productivity and the
internationalisation of companies, then we can see that the energy sector is one of the
key sectors for Barcelona and Catalonia.
Barcelona and its metropolitan area welcome the seat of the most important companies
of the Spanish energy sector, as well as the greatest concentration of companies of
renewable energies of the Spanish state. The city has become one of Spain’s benchmarks,
with real examples that run from the 22@Barcelona district, the technology and innovation
district par excellence, to extensive business networks of leading service companies, a
deep-rooted entrepreneurial spirit and a long tradition in the teaching of energy sciences
and its business practice.
Regarding the availability of human resources, in the last few years Barcelona has increased
resources in education in new technologies as well as in infrastructure for research. The
city has prestigious universities, centres of research that are highly-prepared, laboratories
for R&D, as well as intermediary institutions that facilitate the development of technology
based projects that are motors of new initiatives in the digital industry through the transfer
of knowledge.
Barcelona
Catalonia
Euro-Mediterranean region
5. 09The energy sector in Barcelona and Catalonia08 10 reasons to invest
10 reasons to invest
Barcelona offers a variety of elements that make it
attractive for living, working, and business. The city
is today an interesting place for new economic
activities. Some good reasons to invest here are
listed below.
01Strategic geographical location
Two hours from France and one day from the main European cities by land. Gateway to the South
of Europe, it boasts a port, airport, free trade zone, logistics park, international trade fair, and a
city centre which is located within a five kilometre radius.
02 Complete transport infrastructure
Network of motorways connected to Europe, Europe's fastest growing airport, the top port in Spain
and the biggest port in the Mediterranean in terms of container traffic; dense network of metro,
railways, buses, and the arrival of the High Speed Train in 2007 with a connection into the TGV
European network in 2009.
03 Centre of a large, dynamic, and varied economic area
Greater Barcelona has 4.6 million inhabitants. The city is the capital of Catalonia, which has 7
million inhabitants, and is at the centre of the Mediterranean Rim, a large economic area with
18 million inhabitants. It accounts for 70% of Catalonia's GDP and had a growth rate of 3.1% GDP
in 2004, above the Spanish and European averages. It is the sixth most important European urban
agglomeration and the fifth in terms of industrial concentration in Europe.
04 Successful foreign investment
Fourth-best city in Europe for business*, the city accounts for about 20% of the annual foreign
investment in Spain. There are 2,700 foreign-owned companies here with a 97% level of
investment satisfaction. Barcelona has also consolidated itself as a centre for multinationals'
European divisions.
05 Recognised international position
Barcelona is placed highly in different international rankings, which speak highly of its urban
environment, its capacity to attract foreign capital, its enterprising character, and its quality of life.
06 Human Resources prepared for the future
Ethically responsible, with high productivity -one of the highest in Europe according to the OECD-, 5 public
universities, 2 private universities, 4 business schools: ESADE, IESE, EADA, IESKA; 27 international schools,
extensive penetration of new technologies, a character favouring innovation and creativity.
07 Excellent quality of life
Europe's top city in terms of quality of life*. Stable climate, sun, beaches skiing, splendid culture and leisure
offer, network of 4,500 educational institutions, modern and accessible health service. Easy to get around
with public transport. System of nature parks surrounding the city.
08 Large urban projects for the future
Transformation of 1,000 ha and 7 million m2
of build surface area. Llobregat area: stands for logistics and
internationalisation, with enlargements to the port and airport; the Besòs area: urban renovation, sustainability,
and research centres; Sagrera-Sant Andreu: the arrival of the High Speed Train; Poblenou 22@: the new
technology and innovation district.
09 A competitive real estate offer
Extensive offer of office space, commercial premises and industrial units with an excellent price-quality
relationship. The construction of housing is in an expansive phase.
10 Unique public-private collaboration
Barcelona city council and the Generalitat (Catalan government) support businesses: the success of the
traditional public-private collaboration model has been the key in the transformation of Barcelona.
* According to the European Cities Monitor 2006 Research from Cushman & Wakefield
6. 10 11The energy sector in Barcelona and Catalonia The energy sector in Barcelona and Catalonia
The energy sector forms a
key part of any society’s
economic activities and its
welfare, due both to its
weight as a sector and,
above all, to its strategic
value, given that energy is
a vital part of any industry,
service or form of transport.
For Barcelona and Catalonia
in general, energy plays an
essential role in their
competitiveness and
economic development.
The energy sector
in Barcelona and Catalonia
The goal of this document is to provide an insight the basic features –current and
future– of the energy sector in Catalonia and Barcelona, focusing around 10 strategic
factors:
01 Promotion of renewable energies
02 Energy savings and efficiency
03 New energy infrastructures
04 Barcelona, a model for a city heading towards sustainability
05 Large energy sector operators in Catalonia
06 Businesses backing renewable energies
07 A consolidated presence of manufacturers of capital goods for the energy
sector
08 A research and development culture
09 The Parc de l’Energia, sector project with a bright future
10 The ITER Project in Barcelona
Due to its industrial, enterprising culture, Catalonia boasts great know-
how in the energy sector and carries out a large amount of energy-
related research and development in fields such as renewable energies,
air conditioning, natural cooling technologies and electricity monitoring
and instrumentation.
The 2006-2015 Energy Plan, promoted by the Catalan government
via the Catalan Energy Institute (ICAEN), has taken the vital step to
position the country as one of Europe’s energy sector centres in the
21st
century.
The Plan will develop an energy strategy involving the diversification
of energy sources by promoting renewable energies, improving energy
efficiency and savings, the creation of the required energy infrastructures
and support for energy-related research, development and technological
innovation.
For its part, the city of Barcelona has implemented the Barcelona Energy
Improvement Plan (PMEB). The PMEB forms the generic framework
for the City Council’s work on energy policy and its environmental impact
on the city. It includes an energy and environmental diagnosis of the
Barcelona of today and future trends in the area (to 2010), which should
allow for the forecasting of increases in energy consumption in the city
and their repercussions, through a range of different scenarios. The
Barcelona Energy Agency is responsible for developing the PMEB.
Barcelona and Catalonia already have the key elements in place to successfully tackle the challenges
of the future and to become, over the coming years, an international point of reference in the energy
sector, which is key to the competitiveness and economic development of any territory:
• The firm support of the public administrations for the creation of a model of sustainable
development, backing renewable energies, encouraging energy savings and efficiency and investing
in energy infrastructures that ensure a balance between assuming growth in demand and
sustainability.
• A culture of research and technological innovation currently present in the university and business
sectors, supported and boosted by the creation of the Parc de l’Energia (Energy Park) and the
ITER Project’s Fusion for Energy agency, which should allow for the association of Barcelona and
Catalonia with innovation and technology in the energy sector on an international level.
• A world-ranking, enterprising culture specialising in different market segments:
1. The supply, distribution and sale of energy.
2. The technology for and design and manufacture of renewable energies.
3. An industrial sector producing capital goods for the energy sector.
7. 12 1310 reasons in favour of the energy sector The energy sector in Barcelona and Catalonia
Promotion
of renewable
energies
01
The use of renewable energy sources is a priority for Catalonia, which is
looking to position itself as leading world-wide hub in this sector.
10 reasons in favour
of the energy sector
Within renewable energies, a particularly significant role is played by biofuels and
wind energy:
• Biofuels, which are close to being introduced onto the market, are the source of
renewable energy which has the greatest energy potential in the short and
medium term. It is forecast that they will represent 28.6% of renewable energy
consumption in Catalonia thanks, above all, to the importance of biodiesel which,
with consumption in excess of 870,000 tonnes, is forecast to replace 18% of
motor vehicle diesel consumption.
• Wind energy is that which shows the greatest possibilities, since the associated
technology is at the stage of developing its potential, now it has completed its R&D
and market penetration stages. Therefore, achieving the best out of Catalonia’s
wind power potential will be one of the priorities of energy policy over the coming
years. It is forecast that the power capacity of Catalonia’s wind farms will increase
significantly, taking into account the different studies of its potential and known
initiatives. There are plans for the installation of 3,500 MW and for 25.7% of
renewable energy consumption to be sources from wind farms.
Other important sources of renewable energy include:
• Hydroelectric energy: one of the main source of energy, representing 17.9%
of renewable energy consumption in Catalonia.
• Biomass: as part of the promotion of the identification and development of biomass
energy generation stations, biomass and biogas will together contribute some 512.1
TPEC of energy by 2015, or 17.4% of total energy from renewable sources.
• Solar thermal collectors: the goal here is to reach 1,250,000 square metres of
collectors.
• Photovoltaic modules: with a target of 100 MW, the technological development
of this energy source is in full flow. Given the importance that this energy source
may have in the future, it is considered vital to continue supporting this
development.
The 2006-2015 Energy Plan establishes goals that go beyond the targets
set by the EU. It is planned for the percentage contribution made by
renewable energies to primary energy in Catalonia to progress from
the 2.9% recorded in 2003 to 9.5% by 2015. In this way, it not only
meets the European target of doubling this figure, but plans to more
than triple it. As far as the generation of electrical energy is
concerned, it is planned for the percentage of renewable energies to
reach 24.0% by 2015.
8. The Energy Savings and Efficiency Strategy is one of the core elements of
the Energy Policy. This strategy includes the creation of a range of actions
to open up significant new opportunities for sector businesses. The goal of
this new policy is a sizeable reduction in energy consumption across all
sectors: domestic, tertiary, industrial, energy transportation and
distribution, and transport.
• Combined cycle power plants: the progressive replacement
of the three nuclear power plants currently operational in
Catalonia is based on conventional plants. Of these, the most
appropriate technology is the combined cycle type, fed by
natural gas, which has a low environmental impact due to
its great efficiency.
Catalonia currently boasts four combined cycle plants, with
a total capacity of 1,200 MW. Additionally, two further plants
of 400 MW each are authorised and under construction, and
are planned to come on line in 2007. Three additional 400
MW plants are planned by 2015.
• Wind farms: it is forecast that the power capacity of
Catalonia’s wind farms will increase significantly to reach the
3,500 MW mark.
By 2015, it is forecast that, taking into account the new infrastructures mentioned
above, the power capacity of electricity power plants will be as follows:
Power station type 2003 2015
Ordinary regime 8,210.3 9,350.3
Nuclear 3,146.8 3,146.8
Hydro-electric 2,088.3 2,088.3
Coal 160.0 0.0
Oil/gas 1,235.9 535, 9
Combined cycles 1,579.3 3,579.3
Special regime 1,653.8 6,215.0
Hydro-electric 231.9 386.5
Cogeneration 1,139.1 1,564.0
Wind 86.7 3,500.4
Photovoltaic 2.2 100.0
Waste reduction 115.8 366.2
Other 78.1 297.9
Total power capacity 9,864.1 15,565.3
15The energy sector in Barcelona and Catalonia14 10 reasons in favour of the energy sector
Energy
savings
and efficiency
02 Basic
energy
infrastructures
03
Another important priority for Catalonia is the development of the
infrastructures required to meet the increase in demand for energy over
coming years, whilst taking account of the use of renewable sources and
energy savings and efficiency:
Its strategic lines are as follows:
• Energy savings and efficiency education, training and awareness raising.
• Activation of an energy savings and efficiency market.
• Encouragement of energy savings and efficiency-friendly behaviour
and actions.
• Executive action by the public administration: legal regulation,
inspection and verification.
• Creation of a technology research and development centre aimed
specifically at energy savings and efficiency.
The basic actions, by sector, are as follows:
• Energy transformation: technological restructuring of the asset park
and reduction in losses during generation, transportation and distribution.
• Private transport (renewal of vehicles, efficient choice of means of
transport and efficient driving) and public transport (investment in
infrastructures and service improvements).
• Primary: Renewal of machinery and efficient industry techniques.
• Industrial: speeding up planned changes and technical advice.
• Services: Outsourcing of teams and technical advice.
• Domestic and others: labelling, regulations and signalling of inductive pricing.
• Generic: automation of information management and dissemination.
9. Barcelona is positioning itself as one of Europe’s leading energy sector
capitals. In addition to benefiting from the presence of important
energy companies and attracting investments from around the world
to provide a response to the sector’s objectives over coming decades,
Barcelona is implementing an energy plan with the goal of increasing
its importance in the sector.
10 reasons in favour of the energy sector 17The energy sector in Barcelona and Catalonia16
Barcelona:
a model for a city moving
towards sustainability
04
The Barcelona Energy Improvement Plan (PMEB)
covers a range of local measures aimed at achieving
a more sustainable city model. It brings together 55
projects evaluated from a energy, environment and
economic viewpoint, which tackle different levels of
action, from regulations, aid for installations, training
and education programmes to the creation of
Barcelona Local Energy Agency Consortium, the body
which will manage the PMEB itself.
The Barcelona Local Energy Agency Consortium is
made up of the authorities directly involved (at their
particular level) in energy and environmental
management. Its mission is to promote the position
of Barcelona as an example of how to deal with
energy issues and their environmental repercussions.
It works to ensure that, through consensus and
participation, the city achieves optimal usage and
management of local energy resources, and the
promotion of a quality, rational and sustainable
demand for energy.
All this should permit Barcelona to comply with the
environmental and energy-related commitments it has taken on at both
a local level (as contemplated in the Energy Plan and Agenda 21) and
an international one (resulting from the accords at the Johannesburg,
Kyoto, Aalborg and Rio summits).
The Agency’s work aims to achieve an
improvement in environmental quality
and sustainable development of the city
based on the promotion of energy
savings and efficiency, the awareness
and use of renewable energies and the
optimisation of the quality of services
associated with this sector.
The Agency’s main goals are:
1. To guarantee the implementation
of the Energy Improvement Plan in
the city, with the outlook of a new
energy and environmental
panorama in 2010.
2. To encourage energy savings and
efficiency.
3. To promote the use of local sources
of renewable energy.
4. To progress in improving the quality
of energy services.
10. Large energy
operators
in Catalonia
05
19The energy sector in Barcelona and Catalonia18 10 reasons in favour of the energy sector
Businesses
backing renewable
energy companies
06
Catalonia has played a pioneering role in the creation of companies that
have strongly supported development of the renewable energies sector.
One particularly illustrative examples of this is provided by Ecotècnia.
ECOTÈCNIA, based in Barcelona, has carried been active in the renewable energies
sector since its very beginnings in 1981.
Since 1999, Ecotècnia has formed part of Mondragón Corporación Cooperativa (MCC).
Today, it develops technology and designs, manufactures and operates wind turbines,
building turnkey wind farms for its customers, and also carries out solar energy
installations. At the same time, Ecotècnia has decided to invest in the technological
development of photovoltaic energy, considering it to be a strategic growth element.
In this sector, it develops its own projects and carries out all manner of turnkey
projects in the fields of autonomous hybrid rural electrification systems and
photovoltaic plants connected to the grid.
The company’s annual turnover is around 200 million euros and it has a workforce
of 700 employees.
Ecotècnia was recently acquired by the French Alstom group.
COPCISA, based in Terrassa, is a company that has moved from the construction to
the energy sector, and is one of Catalonia’s leading proponents of wind farms, with
400 MW of power capacity under development.
It has now decided to invest in solar thermal collector plants, which are based on a
technology with a bright future and in which Spain has become a world leader.
ACCIONA is also a Spain-wide construction company which has undergone significant
diversification into renewable energies. It is one of Catalonia’s leading wind farm
companies.
SOL3G a small company located in the el Vallès Technology Park, designs and
manufactures new concepts in photovoltaic solar systems: concentration systems,
which boast improved efficiency and performance.
VESTAS MEDITERRANEAN, a subsidiary of the Danish company VESTAS, world leader
in the manufacture of wind turbines, which develops the Southern European and
Mediterranean markets.
ECOFYS–ECOSTREAM the subsidiary of a Dutch renewable energies, sustainable
building and energy efficiency consulting company. Also carries out the installation
of thermal collector and photovoltaic solar energy systems.
FECSA-ENDESA is the first electric generation company in Spain and the first one to be
privitized in Ibero-America. It also is the first commercial distributor of energy in Catalonia.
IBERDROLA, also present in Catalonia, it is one of the first energy operators of the
world and a worldwide leader in the production of Aeolian energy.
REPSOL, one of the ten largest oil companies in the world and currently the biggest
private company in the energy sector in Latin America. In Catalonia, the company
has several construction projects for biocombustible plants.
RED ELÉCTRICA, electric transmission and distribution company of the State, with
assets and offices in Catalonia.
PRYSMIAN: company is the worldwide leader in the manufacture of electrical
conductors and communication equipment, based in Catalonia.
The Gas Natural Group is an energy services multinational whose activities focus on the
supply, distribution and commercialisation of natural gas in Spain, Latin America, Italy and
France, where it has more than 10 million customers.
The chief strategic lines of action of the Group are based on four central planks:
1. Flexibility and diversification in gas supplies and to have its own gas supply.
2. To develop the electricity business in Spain and Puerto Rico.
3. To maintain its leadership of the gas distribution market in Spain and Latin America.
4. To consolidate its leadership in multi-product sales in Spain.
Today, the Gas Natural Group is now the leading natural gas distribution operator in Latin
America, where half its customers are located in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia and Mexico.
Additionally, the Group has commenced natural gas production after being awarded, together
with Repsol YPF in Algeria, a gas prospecting project and an integrated liquefied natural
gas project which will enable it to have its own reserves for the first time.
In the electricity generation business, the Group strategy focuses on having a balanced,
competitive and environmentally-friendly generation mix, in accordance with the objectives
contained in the Kyoto Protocol. The Group's current generation programme comprises a
total of 1,600 MW of installed capacity in combined cycles plus over 610 MW of gross wind
power which will be increased over the coming years with more than 3,200 MW in combined
cycles and over 1,228 MW in wind power.
Gas Natural’s annual turnover stands at approximately 6,500 million euros. The group has
a workforce of more than 6,500 spread across the three continents in which it is present.
Barcelona is home to one of the world’s most important energy services
multinationals: Gas Natural.
11. a) Simon Holding
Founded in 1916, Simon Holding heads an industrial group of more than 20 companies,
both local and international, present in more than 50 countries. Today, it employs a
workforce of 2,500 persons, 1,300 in Spain and 1,200 abroad. Simon Holding’s annual
turnover exceeds 225 million euros.
Simon Holding holds important positions in the small electrical material and circuit
protection, lighting, home automation, voice and data connections, ducting and electronics
markets.
Simon Holding’s annual investment plan totals approximately 25 million euros. Amongst
other areas, investments are made in the launch of new products developed by its own
R&D departments. 10% of the group’s total workforce in Spain belong to the R&D
Department.
b) Circutor
Since 1973, this company’s activities have covered the design, manufacture and sale of
industrial electrical protection, measuring, electric energy monitoring and reactive energy
compensation equipment, with a highly innovative spirit and always in close collaboration
with its customers.
Key features:
• Circutor is a company that is growing internationally, with a presence in 93 countries
to which it exports some 50% of its production.
• The combined annual turnover of all the Group’s companies is more than 70 million
euros, and they employ between 630 and 640 workers.
• An R&D team composed of more than 50 engineers, designing new products to
meet market requirements.
• Its own laboratory EMC/EMI test laboratory and a comprehensive range of calibration
instruments to guarantee unbeatable quality.
• The provision of multi-sector solutions: from the generation, transportation and
distribution of electrical energy, to its end consumption, including all manner of
industries (car, textile, chemical, iron and steel, etc.) and service sectors (hotels,
airports, public buildings, etc.).
Schneider Electric España
Located in Barcelona, with its head office in France, this company
is a world leader in electric equipment, control systems and the
efficient management of electrical energy in buildings, etc.
PRYSMIAN
A world leader in the manufacture of electric and communications
conductors, based in Vilanova i La Geltrú.
21The energy sector in Barcelona and Catalonia20 10 reasons in favour of the energy sector
Due to its industrial, enterprising culture, Catalonia is home to
important industrial companies manufacturing capital assets for the
energy sector. Two significant examples are provided by:
A consolidated presence
of manufacturers of capital
assets for the energy sector
07
12. 23The energy sector in Barcelona and Catalonia22 10 reasons in favour of the energy sector
A research
and development
culture
08
One of the main strategic projects being executed by Barcelona and
Catalonia is the Parc de l’Energia (Energy Park). This Park, covering a total
of close to 25,000 square metres, will bring together teaching centres,
R&D centres and energy businesses, creating a constant interaction
between these three players within a framework of excellence for the
energy sector.
The Parc de l’Energia will have its own research infrastructure, to be established in the
Barcelona Technological Innovation Park (b_TEC), located between Barcelona and Sant
Adrià del Besòs and alongside 22@Barcelona, the new business district in the centre of
Barcelona.
The Parc de l’Energia will provide a cluster bringing together, integrating and coordinating
the know-how and innovation being created in Catalonia and Spain, as well as seeking
contributions from leading international experiences.
The Parc de l’Energia,
a sector project
with a bright future
09
In recent years, Catalonia has witnessed a progressive increase in
technology R&D in the energy sector. This increase is bringing about a
growing convergence with the level of research and technological
innovation taking place in the world’s most advanced R&D countries.
One of the main goals of the Generalitat’s Energy Plan is to stimulate energy-related
technology research and development.
To this end, the Generalitat’s government has supported the creation of the Catalan
Energy Research Institute, IREC, with the goal of it becoming a centre of excellence in
energy efficiency.
The Institute will also carry on significant activities in the field of renewable energies,
advanced materials for energy and power electronics.
IREC’s mission is to help increase industry’s competitiveness through technology research
and development: it thus has a twin (market oriented/pure research) outlook.
The Catalan public administration, every one of Barcelona’s universities and the
business community are all supporting the Parc de l’Energia, with the following goals:
• To boost existing R&D infrastructures making it the site of the headquarters of
the Catalan Energy Research Institute (IREC)
• To treat as a priority improving the competitiveness of related companies in the
Energy Park, via participation in technological projects and in the transference of
research results.
• To act in the market as an energy technological know-how and market hub,
channelling and unifying those research lines that are considered strategic.
• To act as a node for participation in technological platforms and in the 7th EU
Framework Programme.
• To encourage the physical presence in the Park of innovative energy sector
companies.
• To create a nursery for companies arising from the technological development
projects of the entities making up the Park and other associated projects.
• To develop a collaboration strategy with ICAEN, IDAE, CIEMAT and with the public
authorities in general.
• To promote conformity certification and assessment services in the Park’s areas
of expertise.
Other examples of already-existing research centres in Catalonia which carry on
significant energy-related R&D:
a) The Reference Centre for Advanced Materials for Energy (CeRMAE)
This centre is made up of seven research groups. Its core lines of research are new
materials, energy production methods and processes, energy storage and
transportation materials, materials for the rational use of energy and materials for
safety, efficiency and emission reductions in the use of energy.
b) The Centre for Technological Innovation in Static Inverters and Drives (CITCEA)
CITCEA is a research, development and technology transfer centre whose goal is to
transfer innovation to industry and deliver solutions to the new requirements of the
market, especially to SMEs.
CITCEA’s activities are divided into three areas: mechatronics, energy and training.
1. Mechatronics: specialising in electrical and electronic equipment, power,
microprocessor or DSP control and communications electronics, for carrying out
mechatronics or automation applications.
2. Energy: an expert in energy innovation, in all electric sector-related activities and
the supply of electrical energy, from its generation to its end consumption.
3. Training.
13. ITER is an international collaboration project for the development of
nuclear fusion. Its mission is to demonstrate the scientific and
technological viability of fusion for peaceful purposes. ITER will be the first
fusion device to produce thermal energy at the level of an electricity
power plant. It will constitute a major step forward for scientific progress
and fusion technology. It will also be a key element in the strategy to
demonstrate the viability of an electricity generating plant in a single
experimental step.
25The energy sector in Barcelona and Catalonia24 10 reasons in favour of the energy sector
The ITER
Project
in Barcelona
10
The goal of the ITER project is to build a large experimental fusion
reactor in the French city of Cadarache. However, Barcelona will
be home to Fusion for Energy, the European agency charged with
monitoring all construction, industrial contribution and development
agreements for the project, meaning it will be managing funds of
more than 2,000 million euros. This will create between 120 and
160 jobs, the majority of high-level technical nature. Its offices will
be located within the Parc de l’Energia, and it will be one of the
most important energy sector bodies in Barcelona and Catalunya.
One of the central features of this agency is that it will not only
manage the ITER project, but will also provide a centre
concentrating all of Spain’s fusion research efforts, providing the
possibility of creating very significant synergies.
14. 27The energy sector in Barcelona and Catalonia26
National organisms
CDTI (Centre for Industrial Technology
Development)
www.cdti.es
CSIC (Upper Council for Scientific
Investigations)
www.csic.es
Ministry of Education and Science
www.mec.es
Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Trade
www.mcyt.es
Red.es
www.red.es
Sources of financing
CIDEM (Centre for Innovation and
Business Development)
www.cidem.com
Barcelona Emprèn
www.bcnempren.com
Catalana de Iniciativas
www.iniciatives.es
Catalan Institut for Finances
www.icfinances.com
OficiaI Institut for Credit
www.ico.es
Avalis of Catalonia
www.avalis-srg.cat
ENISA (National Company for
Innovation)
www.enisa.es
Entrepreneurial organisms
Barcelona Chamber of Commerce
www.cambrabcn.es
Spanish Association of Companies of
Alternative Solar Energy
www.asensa.org
Glossary
Glossary
Editors
Barcelona City Council - Economic Promotion
22@Barcelona
CIDEM. Government of Catalonia
Barcelona Chamber of Commerce
Design
Imasdecomunicació, S.C.P.
Printing
Gráficas Sierra, S.L.
D.L. (legal deposit): B-44248-2007
Barcelona, September, 2007
Circulation: 2,000 (english version)
Education centre
EADA School of Advanced Management
and Administration
www.eada.edu
ESADE Business School
www.esade.edu
IESE Business School
www.iese.edu
UAB (Autonomous University of
Barcelona)
www.uab.cat
UB (University of Barcelona)
www.ub.es
UIC (International University of Catalonia)
www.unica.edu
UOC (Open University of Catalonia)
www.uoc.edu
UPC (Politechnic University of Catalonia)
www.upc.es
UPF (University Pompeu Fabra)
www.upf.es
URL (University Ramon Llull)
www.url.cat
R&D+i and transfer
of knowledge
Barcelona Supercomputing Centre
www.bsc.cat
Barcelona Digital Fundation
www.bcndigital.org
Network of Science and Technology
Parks of Catalonia (XPCAT)
www.xpcat.net
Local organisms
Barcelona City Council – Economic
Promotion
www.bcn.cat/barcelonabusiness
22@Barcelona
www.22barcelona.com
Barcelona Activa
www.barcelonaactiva.es
Industrial Pact for the Metropolitan
Region of Barcelona
www.pacteind.org
Autonomic organisms
Catalan Energy Institute
www.icaen.net
CIDEM (Centre for Innovation and
Business Development)
www.cidem.com
ACI (Catalan Agency for Investments)
www.catalonia.com
CIRIT (Inter Departamental Advice
Board for Research and Technological
Innovation)
www10.gencat.net/dursi/ca/re/cirit.htm
Catalan Foundation for Research and
Innovation (FCRI)
www.fcr.es
Spanish Foundation for Science and
Technology (FECYT)
www.fecyt.es
Environmental Forum Foundation
www.forumambiental.org