Significant grants for the affected basins
The Catalan Water Agency (ACA) has announced an investment of 4.2 million euros on grants intended to combat the effects of the drought on the Siurana, Riudecanyes and Montsant basins. This initiative seeks to support communities that have been severely affected by the lack of water that Catalonia has experienced since the end of 2020.
Distribution of funded grants and projects
In total, 31 grants have been granted to various regions: 21 for Priorat, 8 for Baix Camp, 1 for Conca de Barberà and 1 for the Ribera d’Ebre. These subsidies will allow a total investment that amounts to 4.9 million euros, focusing on projects such as water transport with tank trucks, improvements in water tanks, and the construction of new catchments.
Facilities in the implementation process
The ACA has facilitated that the beneficiaries can advance the necessary funds for the implementation of the projects, and a flexibility has been established that allows the solutions to be adapted to ensure water supply. The grants, which cover approximately 91% of the costs, have been designed to be used between June 1, 2024 and December 31, 2025.
Possibility of modification of projects
The beneficiaries have the option of requesting changes in the resolution of grants, provided that the new actions do not exceed the maximum amount of the grant granted. This measure seeks to encourage the adoption of more efficient technical solutions to deal with the supply crisis.
Recipients of Aid
The aid is aimed at local entities and groups that operate within the affected basins or which are mainly supplied with these water sources. However, those entities that have access to the supply network managed by the Water Consortium of Tarragona are not eligible for these subsidies.
A necessary response to drought
With these grants, the ACA seeks to provide crucial support to the most vulnerable communities in the face of drought, emphasizing the importance of good management of water resources at a time of great need. Collaboration between institutions and local entities is essential to meet the challenges of climate change and guarantee the water supply in the long term.
