Adzaneta del Maestrat is a city in Spain located 45 km from Castellón with a population of 1,462 inhabitants. Archeological sites dating back to the Bronze Age have been found there, as well as remains from the Zanata Berber tribe from North Africa. Agriculture, livestock, and forestry represent the basis of the local economy. The city aims to develop renewable energy projects utilizing solar power and converting organic waste to energy to diversify its economy and attract sustainable tourism to the region and its natural and cultural attractions.

1. Pilot community:
ADZANETA DEL MAESTRAT
SPAIN
Population: 1.462 (2007) inhabitants
Area: 71,27 km2
Address: Plaza Mayor nº 2
Zip code: 12132 (Castellón)
Phone: +34 964 370018
Fax: +34 964 370298
Mayor Joaquim Escrig Escrig
e-mail: info@atzenetadelmaestrat.es
website: http://www.atzenetadelmaestrat.es/es
Adzaneta (Atzeneta in Valencian language) is a City of the Spanish Region of Valencia, situated
45 km from the city of Castellón. Its territory covers an area of 71,27 km2. Its position 401m above sea
level makes Adzaneta the “main entry” to Penyagolosa Massif. The city centre is located along a large
corridor which is an important landline.
In Adzaneta several archeologic sites dating back the bronze era have been found as well as
those belonging to the Zanata’s Berber tribe coming from the north of Africa: the city name itself
(Adzaneta) originated from the word Zanata. Adzaneta was officially chartered with the Carta de la
Puebla (People’s chart) in 1272 given by the local noble Guillem d'Anglesola. Adzaneta experienced a
great development along the XIV, the XV and most of all during the XIII century.
Agriculture, livestock and forest exploitation represent the basis of Adzaneta’s economy and also
a potential source for renewable energy production. The future economic plans for the City focus on the
implementation of projects aimed at exploiting renewable sources. The population counts 1462
inhabitants mainly gathered in the city centre. Even though, there are several country houses inhabited
all around Adzaneta’s municipal area.
The region’s rich natural and cultural diversity makes it an attractive place for sustainable tourism.
Renewable Energy Sources
Now: Sun (photovoltaic farms are available); organic residues.
Future: Projects aimed at converting organic residues in energy; photovoltaic farms with the
participation of local cooperatives.
Rational Use of Energy