The island of Tenerife aims to move beyond its current role as an astronomical observatory to become a central hub for space technology development, satellite control, data processing, and attracting innovative companies in the so-called 'new space economy'.
This ambitious goal is embodied in the 'Tenerife Space Horizon' strategy, driven by a joint motion from Coalición Canaria and the Partido Popular, set for approval in the island's plenary session. The initiative calls for the active involvement of the Spanish Government, the regional executive, and the European Space Agency (ESA) to boost technological projects on the island.
The proposal, signed by spokespersons José Miguel Ruano (CC) and Lope Afonso (PP), formally requests that the state and Canary Islands administrations promote active participation in technological projects developed in Tenerife with the ESA. It seeks explicit support for the expansion of the 'Canary Islands Constellation' and the future 'Tenerife Teleport', as well as the integration of the island's scientific and technological centers into European space innovation programs such as ESA BIC, Horizon Europe, and CEF Digital.
Furthermore, it proposes the creation of public-private co-financing schemes to ensure project continuity and facilitate the transition of scientific investments into business activity, technological transfer, and the generation of skilled employment.
The 'Tenerife Space Horizon' strategy is based on existing infrastructure and capabilities on the island, including research centers, advanced telecommunications, computing power, and established projects in Earth observation, astrophysics, satellite communications, and data processing. This ecosystem is structured around the Technological and Renewable Energy Institute (ITER), the Science and Technology Park of Tenerife (PCTT), and the IACTEC environment.
Key elements of this strategy include the 'Canary Islands Constellation', a group of satellites to be built on the island for surveillance and control functions, and the future island teleport. Projects like 'Celeste', from the Canary Islands Institute of Astrophysics (IAC), also contribute to advancing optical technologies and 'new space' applications.
The objective is for Tenerife to participate in all phases of the space value chain, from research and development of components to satellite operation, signal reception, information processing, and service creation. The strategic geographical position of the Canary Islands, its international connectivity, ITER's infrastructure, and IAC's knowledge are key competitive advantages.
This initiative is complemented by an additional investment of 850,000 euros approved by the Island Council to expand and modernize the facilities of the Science and Technology Park of Tenerife, responding to the high occupancy rate and growing interest from innovative companies. This funding will be allocated to works, technological equipment, and digitalization, increasing the specific capital contribution for 2025 and 2026.
The President of the Island Council, Rosa Dávila, highlighted that the near-total occupancy of the park's spaces demonstrates companies' interest in developing their projects on the island, emphasizing the responsibility to continue growing, generate opportunities, and attract high-qualification talent and investment to diversify the island's economy.
The expansion of scientific hubs aims to facilitate the establishment of companies that develop products and services based on space infrastructure. Entry into ESA programs, such as the ESA BIC incubators, and access to Horizon Europe and CEF Digital, will provide funding, technical advice, and business networks for emerging companies.
The ultimate aspiration is to consolidate Tenerife as an Atlantic technology node connecting European projects with Africa and America, combining its geographical advantages with sufficient infrastructure, funding, specialized training, and business spaces. The motion seeks to gain the support of the Spanish and European administrations to scale the strategy and transform scientific knowledge into businesses and high-skilled jobs.
