Energy and Ecosocial Transition: Harnessing Solar Potential for an Energy Community in Orcasitas

Abstract

The connection between energy and eco-social transition, as well as the relevance for informing participatory processes and analysing concrete cases of energy transition in specific communities, define the purpose of the research carried out in different fields. The study analyses the feasibility of implementing a renewable energy community at neighbourhood level, focusing on the potential of harnessing solar photovoltaic energy in the Poblado Dirigido de Orcasitas. The results show a promising potential, with more than 6.5 MWp available on rooftops that could generate around 8,500 MWh per year, covering approximately half of the estimated electricity consumption for all dwellings in the neighbourhood. It is highlighted that, at the building level, the PV potential varies according to the type of housing and its orientation, with high-rise blocks of collective housing being the most affected by this variation. In addition, the integration of solar technology from the initial design of construction or renovation projects is suggested. The study concludes that these findings can contribute to the development of solar self-consumption and the support of energy communities, in line with the objectives of energy and eco-social transition, promoting a participatory approach to decision-making at territorial level.