The citizens' platform of those affected by the Alcúdia cable warns of "shortcomings" in the environmental impact study and proposes an alternative

AlcudiaThe platform Association for a New Agreement for the Alcudia Cable (ANACA) convened a meeting at the Alcudia Cultural Center, where it presented a comprehensive technical analysis of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the PENBAL II high-voltage cable project. The meeting was open to the public and included the participation of residents, representatives of the ANACA platform, and members of various political groups from the Alcudia City Council. During the event, ANACA highlighted the main critical points of the project's EIA and emphasized the "technical and environmental weaknesses of the route approved on July 17th," according to the organization's spokespeople. One of the most concerning aspects, according to the platform's analysis, is the lack of an adequate assessment of the impacts on public health and the environment, especially regarding the effects on Posidonia oceanica, a habitat of great ecological value. To encourage active and informed citizen participation in the process, ANACA has also presented a sample objection form that residents can use to defend an alternative that, in their opinion, is "more respectful of the environment." This alternative, known as 10-Bis, was rejected by the Administration, but ANACA argues that it would "avoid the destruction of sensitive areas, make use of existing infrastructure, and reduce the impact on residential areas and economic activities." One of the platform's main criticisms is that the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) does not "adequately consider the health effects resulting from exposure to electromagnetic fields," even though Spanish regulations are much more lenient than international recommendations. In its statement, ANACA emphasized the importance of reconsidering the approved route and evaluating alternatives that not only meet energy objectives but also respect the precautionary principle and protect public health and the environment. The meeting also addressed the need for a just energy transition, which should not come at the expense of the region's sustainability or people's quality of life. To ensure transparency and facilitate citizen participation, ANACA has made a comprehensive document with the technical analysis, a detailed route plan, and a template for submitting objections available on its website to all interested citizens. Residents of Alcúdia have until the end of this year to submit their objections and express their opinions on the project.