The president of the Andalucian government, Juanma Moreno, has made an emphatic call for the construction of new reservoirs in Andalucia, highlighting the need for improved water security in the face of climate change.
Speaking via videoconference from Baku, Azerbaijan, during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29), Moreno stressed that the construction of reservoirs is crucial both for water availability and public safety. “We need to build reservoirs; we see they are necessary to secure water and for safety,” he declared during an interview on the programme La Alameda, aired by SUR and 101TV.
Shift in policy
For more than two decades, reservoir construction has been sidelined in favour of water transfers and desalination solutions. However, Moreno’s comments signal a clear shift in policy. “We have studied the areas topographically and geographically to deal with major floods.” he said. Moreno also urged support from the Spanish central government to complete the water projects already in progress. “Andalucia is going to face increasingly frequent drought cycles, and we need to prepare,” Moreno added.
Revival of Cerro Blanco dam project
The Andalucian President put also the focus on the Cerro Blanco dam project, which could play a vital role in flood prevention along the Guadalhorce River. The proposed reservoir aims to regulate water flow and mitigate the impact of major floods like those experienced during the recent DANA (a type of Mediterranean storm). This project will particularly benefit municipalities in the Guadalhorce Valley, such as Cártama, Álora, and Pizarra. These have historically been vulnerable to flooding during periods of heavy rainfall.
The plans for the reservoir, which had been shelved for decades, have now gained momentum. The Junta is preparing to open bids for feasibility studies and construction alternatives. According to the regional government, the time has come to overcome “false environmental concerns” about these kinds of infrastructure projects. Moreno emphasised the damage caused to communities during extreme weather events when such defences are lacking.
Drought in Andalucía is far from over
Despite the recent heavy rains brought by DANA, Moreno warned that the drought is far from over. He noted that many citizens may be puzzled by continuing irrigation restrictions, given the recent storms. “The Mediterranean basin is currently at 30% of its capacity, below the ten-year November average of over 40%, and Málaga’s reservoirs are only at 28%, so we still have a water deficit,” he said.
Current reservoirs in Andalucia
Andalucia is home to several key reservoirs, including Guadalhorce, Iznájar, and La Viñuela. Currently, the reservoirs are operating well below capacity due to prolonged periods of drought. As of now, Guadalhorce stands at approximately 28% of its full capacity, while Iznájar and La Viñuela are also critically low, averaging around 30% and 25% respectively. This highlights the pressing need for new infrastructure to ensure water security in the region.
Moreno reiterated his commitment to improving water management through expanded wastewater recycling. Currently, 70% of water in Andalucia is treated and recycled. However, the aim is to boost that figure to 180 cubic hectometres within the next three years.
Highest regeneration rates and reforestation plan
The Andalucian leader also brought his water management proposals to COP29, discussing how regions like California are adapting to climate change. “In four years, Andalucia will be the region with the highest regeneration rates in Spain and one of the leaders in Europe,” Moreno stated. Alongside this, he announced an ambitious reforestation plan to plant 1.5 million trees across Andalucía. The initiative focuses on reforesting areas affected by wildfires, restoring degraded lands, and enhancing urban green spaces. For this, public land will be made available for private companies and organisations.
‘Climate change is a stark reality’
“Climate change is a stark reality,” Moreno emphasised. “The impacts we thought would come by 2050 are happening now. We have experienced five years of drought, torrential rain, and rising temperatures in Andalucia. We must adapt and mitigate these effects, as they are threatening our key economic drivers—agriculture and tourism.”