Solar greenhouses in Spain

Spain, with its warm climate and abundant hours of sunshine, offers ideal conditions for the use of solar greenhouses. These special greenhouses are designed to make optimum use of sunlight while providing plants with the necessary protection from extreme weather conditions. As we are also frequently involved in the sale of agricultural land, sustainable agriculture is always an exciting future field for us.

The use of solar greenhouses in Spain has increased in recent years, especially in the commercial sector. Large agricultural businesses and mega-projects have recognized that this method is not only environmentally friendly, but also offers considerable advantages.

Cultivation area for solar greenhouses in Spain

The cultivation area for solar greenhouses in Spain has increased considerably in recent years. This is mainly due to the growing demand for sustainably grown food and the increased use of renewable energy sources. Large agricultural companies and mega-projects are increasingly investing in solar greenhouses in order to increase their yields and reduce their environmental footprint at the same time.

How a solar greenhouse works

This video explains the important considerations and elements when building a passive solar greenhouse. These include positioning in relation to solar radiation, choice of glazing (polycarbonate), building materials (wood and fiber cement panels), insulation, thermal mass, ventilation options, preparation of planting beds and automation of processes such as ventilation and irrigation. This overview provides useful information for building an efficient passive solar greenhouse.

Example of agriculture in Almería: challenges and opportunities

Almería, a region in Spain, is known for its plastic greenhouses, which cover an enormous amount of land. These greenhouses play a crucial role in supplying Europe with fruit and vegetables, and they provide between 40 and 50 percent of these products. However, intensive agriculture in Almería has both positive and negative aspects. I recommend the video below on the subject.

Positive impact on the economy and technology

The greenhouses in Almería have brought an economic boom to the region. They enable year-round production and contribute to economic development. State-of-the-art technology is used to increase productivity and minimize the need for pesticides.

Working conditions and social controversies

Despite their economic importance, the working conditions in the greenhouses are controversial. The predominantly immigrant workforce often faces low wages, insecure employment and health risks from pesticides. This has led to public controversy and social challenges.

Environmental impact and sustainability

Intensive farming in Almería also has an environmental impact. Plastic waste and pesticides pollute the environment. Nevertheless, progress is being made in water use and recycling in order to minimize the environmental impact. The region uses less water per capita than many other regions in Spain.

Consumer behavior and demand

The demand for cheap, year-round fruit and vegetables in Europe has driven intensive farming in Almería. Consumers play an important role in this model, as they demand low-priced products.

Intensive farming in Almería has both positive and negative aspects. It provides Europe with an abundance of fruit and vegetables, but the working conditions and environmental impact are controversial. The future of this agriculture depends on the willingness to tackle these challenges and raise consumer awareness of their impact.

Fighting pests in an ecological way

Almería benefits from abundant sunshine, even in winter, which makes it possible to harvest ripe peppers and tomatoes all year round. This locational advantage has led to an increase in organic farming in the region in recent years. According to Yamato (source: YouTube), who works for the Association of Vegetable Growers in Almería:

“the proportion of land under organic cultivation has risen from 1.4 percent to an impressive 10.3 percent and continues to show strong growth.”

In the greenhouses of Almería, biological pest control is used to reduce the use of pesticides. Various predatory insects such as predatory mites, ladybugs and lacewings are used to keep pests such as aphids at bay. This ecological approach helps to minimize the environmental impact of agriculture.

More on this in a moment.

Mass with class! Almería from above

Despite these positive aspects, there are also challenges. In the hot months, pests can multiply quickly and cause considerable damage to the plants. The use of plastic in agriculture, which is used to cover greenhouses, also has an environmental impact. One solution is to fully recycle the plastic and work on optimizing water consumption.

Sustainable fruit and vegetables from Europe

Another example is the program“It’s Greenhouse. Sustainable fruit and vegetables from Europe” provides a range of key figures and information on sustainability and its application in the Spanish fruit and vegetable sector. Here are some of the key figures:

Growth of solar greenhouse cultivation

The area of solar greenhouses in southern Europe, particularly in the Spanish region of Andalusia, has grown from 515 hectares in the 2006/2007 season to more than 27,863 hectares in the past 2022/2023 season.

Biological pest control

The program emphasizes the use of biological pest control in the solar greenhouses. This includes the use of auxiliary fauna to control pests and diseases without using synthetic pesticides.

Top 7 products with biological pest control

The top list of natural pest control:

1. Paprika leads the way in the use of biological pest control with 100% of its area,
2. Followed by tomatoes,
3. Cucumbers,
4. Eggplants,
5. Zucchini,
6. Watermelons
7. Melons

Sustainable agriculture and renewable energies

Solar greenhouses have become an important element of sustainable agriculture and renewable energy in Spain. The area under cultivation is growing steadily and their benefits are attractive for mega-projects and agricultural companies alike. The combination of energy efficiency, year-round cultivation and environmental protection makes this cultivation method a promising solution for the future of agriculture in Spain.

Advantages of a balcony solar system

Solar panels on the balcony are a great way to generate electricity while protecting the environment. This is because solar energy is a sustainable energy source that produces no emissions. In addition, it is inexpensive and easy to install.

A balcony solar system has many advantages. On the one hand, it is environmentally friendly, since it does not cause emissions. On the other hand, it is cost-effective, since the investment costs for a system are relatively low. The running costs for maintenance and servicing are also low.

In addition, a balcony solar system is easy to install. All you need is a solid substructure to which the panels can be attached. Even for laymen, the installation is usually no problem.

So, if you are considering whether to invest in a balcony solar installation, then you should carefully consider the above advantages. Because solar energy is not only environmentally friendly, but also inexpensive and easy to install.

Advantages of a balcony solar system

Balcony solar systems save money: By installing a balcony solar system, you can reduce your electricity costs by up to 80%. They are environmentally friendly: Solar power is a renewable energy source and thus contributes significantly to climate protection. You are independent: Solar power is generated directly on site and you are therefore no longer dependent on the price trends of the electricity market. You have a high return on investment: The investment in a Balkon solar system pays for itself after only 5-7 years.

The advantages of a balcony power plant at a glance:

1. Balcony solar systems save money
2. You live more environmentally friendly
3. You are more independent
4. You have a high profitability

Disadvantages of a balcony solar system

The disadvantages of a balcony solar system at a glance:

1. A balcony solar system is relatively expensive to purchase
2. The installation of a balcony solar system can be costly
3. A balcony solar system requires regular maintenance and care to function optimally
4. In bad weather, a balcony solar system can generate less electricity than in good weather
5. A balcony solar system takes up space and can interfere with the view

That to the pros and cons of a balcony solar system. Now my 3 recommendations on Amazon.

Recommendations on Amazon: My top 3

Many buyers, 4-5 stars in the rating, with these solar panels you can become self-sufficient.

EcoFlow: 400 W solar module

EcoFlow’s 400W solar panel is extremely powerful and can provide a significant amount of power to your power station. It is foldable and comes with a carrying bag with adjustable stand, so it can be transported comfortably. The solar panel is also very efficient and weighs only 16 kg.

• EcoFlow solar system

Dokio: 110-W solar module (up to 300-W)

The solar panel is super practical and can be folded to save space. Whether in your backpack, bike bag, car or camper: take this mobile power plant with you everywhere.

• Dokio solar system

Firefly: 100W solar panel

The solar charger from has a cell conversion efficiency of up to 23% and is particularly efficient due to our advanced manufacturing process. This results in improved output power compared to conventional solar panels. The unit is compact and easy to transport, so you can take it anywhere. The attached stands support the panel and allow you to adjust the angle to get the best performance. Three USB ports and two DC output ports give you more charging options.

• Firefly solar system

Extra Tip! Flexible solar model from Dokio

Have you ever seen this before? A flexible solar panel with 4+ stars. Balcony, caravan, on the road with the family – The semi-flexible solar module weighs only 1.1kg and can even be bent up to 30% due to its thin but robust cell structure. It has a special surface coating which protects it from external effects such as salt water, hail, rain and wind. It can be easily attached to eyelets or glued with adhesive. This makes it ideal for caravans, boats, curved and small surfaces.

• Dokio flexible solar system

Installation of the balcony solar system

Installing a balcony solar system is relatively simple and can usually be done by anyone. However, there are some points that should be considered before starting the work. First of all, you should find out the size of the system and make sure that you have enough space for installation. Secondly, one must make sure that the plant is installed on a stable surface so that it cannot fall down. Thirdly, one must make sure that all the components are properly connected before connecting the power.

After learning about the above points, you can start installing the balcony solar system. First, you should place the solar system in the desired location on the balcony and make sure that all components are present. After that, one should fix the solar cells on the surface and then make the connection between the solar cells and the inverter. After everything is connected, you can connect the power and put the system into operation.

Installation: Instructions in 6 steps

The instructions in short:

1. Determine position for solar system (direction of sun)
2. Secure / clean area for installation
3. Measuring, procuring tools
4. Frame installation
5. Install solar panel
6. Connect solar system

Determine position for solar system (direction of sun)

Step 1 – Determine the best position for the solar installation on your balcony. Take into account the course of the sun and the shadows cast by other parts of the building to achieve optimal results.

Secure / clean area for installation

Step 2 – Make sure the area is safe and complies with the manufacturer’s instructions. For example, check that there is no dirt or that there is an obstacle nearby that could interfere with mounting.

Measuring, procuring tools

Step 3 – Measure all components again and obtain all necessary tools and materials.

Frame installation

Step 4 – Start installing the frame towards the sun and adjust it based on the size and angle you measured. Make sure the frame is securely fastened; check its stability several times, especially in the wind.

Install solar panel

Step 5 – Now install the solar modules on the frame and connect them with cables. Make sure that all connection contacts are securely insulated and that the connection plugs are free of interference – loose modules can cause damage!

Connect solar system

Step 6 – Finally, attach the inverter, connect it to the power grid and regulate the voltage transformers for maximum efficient operation of the system. At the end, test again all the functional units of the solar system for proper operation!

Maintenance and care of the balcony solar system

Maintenance and care of the balcony solar system is relatively simple and straightforward. All you need for this are a few utensils and means that you can find in any household. First of all, you should regularly inspect your system and check if everything is in order. To do this, you just need to look on the balcony to see if all the components are in place and do not have any damage. Also, you should check if the plant is completely covered, so that it can not be damaged.

Additionally, you should clean your system regularly to prevent dirt or debris from building up. There are several ways to do this: First, you can wash the system with lukewarm water and then rub it dry with a cloth. Alternatively, you can also use a mild cleaning agent to clean the system. However, make sure that this agent is not too strong and does not have any negative effects on the components.

Cost-benefit analysis of the balcony solar system

A balcony solar system can pay for itself in the long run. Buying a solar system is an investment and can pay off for the owner in a number of ways. The savings from operating the system can be significant if you choose the right size and make good use of the energy generated.

Cost of installation by craftsman

The cost of a balcony solar system varies depending on the provider and type of system. On average, a fully installed balcony solar system costs between 8,000 and 12,000 euros. However, there are numerous factors that influence the price, such as the size of the system, the cost of the installation process, and any government subsidy programs.

In terms of savings, it is estimated that a balcony solar system can save approximately 10,000 to 15,000 euros in energy costs over its life cycle of about 20 years. Depending on the particular consumption and the efficiency of the system, this value may vary. The savings are greater the more electricity is produced, so it may make sense to invest in a slightly larger system than originally planned.

Cheap balcony solar power systems: do-it-yourself installation

If you are looking for an inexpensive way to generate electricity on your balcony and at the same time want to learn something new – why not think about building a solar system? With Amazon’s wide range of high quality products, it’s fast and cheap!

Above you will find my tips for solar systems with good reviews!

Mitigate long-term environmental problems

In addition, there are other benefits to installing a balcony solar system: For example, solar systems help conserve fossil fuel sources and reduce carbon emissions – which, in turn, can help alleviate long-term environmental problems. In addition, individuals with solar systems can generate revenue by “pumping” excess electricity into the public grid. This concept is known as grid parity, and it makes it possible for homeowners to earn money by selling their solar energy to underserved regions or giving it to other homeowners.

Investment costs and long-term savings

Although the initial investment in a Balkon solar system is high, it offers many potentials for financial savings and positive impact on the environment and the community – making it a worthwhile investment. With rising energy prices, it has become increasingly important to use alternative energy sources – making it even more important to invest in solar systems to reap the benefits of clean energy production!

Solar in the electricity mix: annual increase

Here you can see the share of photovoltaics in gross electricity generation in Germany from 2002 to 2021, which is rising and rising. Each new solar module feeds more into the system.

You can find more statistics at Statista

Building project of the future with 0 emissions

The Saudi Arabian government has unveiled the first images of the 500-meter-tall rectilinear city called “The Line” to be built as part of Neom, near the Red Sea. “The Line” will be a car-free and equally carbon-free (CO²) city the size of the country of Belgium.

• The Line / Neom – official website

Spectacular! The Line meets Red Sea

This is how spectacularly “The Line” meets the red sea. With exclusive berths for yachts and lots and lots of sand.

Why is Saudi Arabia building “The Line”?

As mentioned before, “The Line” will be a car-free and equally carbon-free (CO²) city the size of the country of Belgium. So much for the grand plan. Will the XL construction project succeed? The FT’s Andrew England explores the Saudi crown prince’s pet project.

Visualization: Video from Neom

Neom is a government-projected planned city, with an attached technology park, in the northwest of the country, not far from the Gulf of Aqaba, and on the Red Sea coast.

Big city rethought: transformation

What if you were to completely rethink a major city like London, with a population of 9 million?

Location of “The Line”: Satellite view

“The Line” from the view from space.

Here a little closer, with connection to the Red Sea.

Photos: First visualizations of The Line

The interior of Saudi Arabia’s 150-kilometer mirrored line skyscraper:

Skyscrapers and tropical forest

The project combines city and “tropical forest”.

Sports stadium in the middle of the line

View from above: Desert meets tropical forest

In this published picture you can see once again very nicely how the contrast of desert and tropical forest looks from above.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on “The Line

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on “The Line” project. Here are 3 short excerpts and statements.

Source: Neom.

His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said, “At the launch of ‘The Line’ last year, we committed to a civilizational revolution centered on people and based on radical change in urban planning. The designs for the city’s vertically layered communities unveiled today will challenge traditional flat, horizontal cities and create a model for protecting nature and improving people’s quality of life. ‘The Line’ will address the challenges humanity faces in urban living today and demonstrate alternative ways of living.”

He added, “We cannot ignore the quality of life and environmental crises facing our world’s cities, and ‘Neom’ is at the forefront of finding new and imaginative solutions to these problems. ‘Neom’ is leading a team of the brightest minds in architecture, engineering and construction to make the idea of building upward a reality.”

He continued, “The ‘Neom’ will be a place where all people from around the world can make their mark on the world in creative and innovative ways. NEOM remains one of the most important projects of the Saudi Vision 2030, and we are determined to make ‘The Line’ a reality on behalf of the nation.”

Largest mirrored building

Largest mirrored building – The Maraya Concert Hall in Saudi Arabia I must show you! A real architectural highlight and certainly a hotspot of this world in the future. Al-Ula is a unique region in Saudi Arabia that was hidden from tourists until September 2019. Now the whole world has the opportunity to discover ancient places that are more than 6,000 years old.

• Mirrored concert hall

Architecture is one thing. Ideas are something else. This one is… wow. The Maraya Concert Hall.

The retro trend is interpreted in a modern way – velvet has not been outdated for a long time already

Velvet has often been in and out of fashion, not only in the fashion industry but also in home trends. Meanwhile, velvet is considered retro and a bit kitschy, but the trend is reinterpreted and adapted to modernity, which is why it appears in a whole new light. Bright colors, offer the velvet new dimensions, because today you can find it in pastel shades, bright colors but also in subtle tones, such as gray. Combined with modern metal tables and marble accessories, velvet fits elegantly into a modern living space. Those who are not so keen on experimenting can also approach the trend slowly and furnish their home with discreet decorative pieces, such as velvet cushions, blankets or curtains.

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Cocooning – how velvet is changing the way we live

Our home is our retreat, the place where we want to feel comfortable and secure, a warm and cozy living space where we can relax and recover from the stressful everyday life. Here we return to ourselves and spend the much needed ‘me-time’. The trendy material, with its suppleness and soft qualities, adapts exactly to our needs. The strong colours offer a relaxed and harmonious atmosphere in which to find the relaxation we need. Combined with modern design, velvet can be interpreted in a contemporary way and thus offers many possibilities for individual design in living spaces.

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What is velvet? – Origin, production & care

Velvet is a fabric that is woven from cotton or synthetic fibers. The special feature are the so-called pile threads, which form the soft surface, which is also called pile. They are worked into the basic fabric by different weaving systems. Loops are created over the base fabric, which are cut open at the end, thus creating the velvet surface. This gives the velvet not only its shimmering surface, but also its soft fall and the soft surface that characterize the velvet.

Velvet can be divided into different types, which determine the quality. Among the noblest belongs, for example, warp velvet & Genoa velvet, which have a very high-quality processing. In cheaper types of velvet, such as velvet, the fibers are only glued on, which of course deteriorates the quality.

Even today, velvet is still considered a royal fabric, which is due to the fact that it was reserved for the nobility for a long time. There it was used in furniture, living accessories, wallpapers and finally in clothes, which makes it popular until today.

Cleaning velvet has become much easier over the years, because in the past it was woven from silk, which made it not only more valuable, but also more sensitive. Today, where it is made of cotton or synthetics, it is usually enough to clean it regularly with a vacuum cleaner. For impurities, a clothes brush can help – but here only brush in the direction of the stroke, otherwise patterns can appear in the fabric. Damp dirt should be dabbed off as quickly as possible with upholstery shampoo, a cloth and some warm water, but be careful. Velvet definitely does not belong in the washing machine. For small accessories, such as velvet cushions, a hand wash in lukewarm water is sufficient.

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Integrate velvet in any living space – it’s all a question of balance

Velvet is a very dominant material and offers great accents in living spaces. However, the well-known rule ‘less is more’ applies here, because velvet in the overload quickly reminds of royal houses in old times and does not seem modern at all, but rather flooded. With a few simple tricks, velvet can be combined, however, very modern. This creates unique room atmospheres with a very special flair.

Velvet furniture – modern combinations of sofas, armchairs, cushions & co.

There are some parts with which velvet gets along particularly well, this includes especially metal, brass, static shapes but also patterns, such as marble. Also plants can be combined well with the material, a favorite composition is old pink velvet combined with large bright green cacti. A great mix of elegance and innovation that gives a room a special flair.

Since the velvet makes a statement, it should be integrated into the room by modern elements, because thus you create a great atmosphere, in which both retro elements, as well as modern together. Of course, there is no manual how to design the perfect room with velvet, because there is definitely own creativity needed. However, the rule ‘less is more’ is important here because velvet should appear as the highlight of a room and not flood the space. So a statement piece of velvet is quite enough to give a room that certain something. A few cushions on the sofa, a velvet armchair or rather a velvet carpet, all these possibilities hold the versatile fabric for you.

But velvet – apart from its great look – has other advantages that have made it a deservedly trendy fabric. Velvet is known for its incredibly beautiful and soft surface and let’s be honest, who does not like to stroke over a fluffy soft velvet sofa and then let himself fall into the upholstery? In addition, velvet, especially a higher quality is quite easy to maintain, if you know the right handles for it and use them skillfully.

But velvet can also be used quite unconventionally. An example of this would be a velvet wallpaper, which is certainly not easy to find, but can enhance a room very much. The shimmering surface and the color that changes depending on the incidence of light results in a great room atmosphere and is something very special. Also here but the most important rule not forgotten, because a wall or a piece of a wall with velvet wallpaper to upgrade is a great idea and gives the room a very special atmosphere, velvet on all four walls, but would oppress the room and make it seem smaller than it actually is. For your home design with velvet, there are many inspirations and suggestions.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BhCSEwwBLOr/?tagged=velvetinterior

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• Forecast constituency
• CDU / CSU
• SPD
• FDP
• The Greens
• The Left
• AfD

Trends in the CDU’s federal election

The CDU / CSU is a people’s party of the middle, since 1945 it is active in the federation and in the respective states. As a people’s party in the Federation, the program of the CDU / CSU is generally aimed at all classes and groups in the Federation. 30.0% can claim the CDU / CSU in Berlin (Berlin) according to the forecast. Read more about the CDU / CSU here.

Trends for the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD) in Berlin

The SPD, Social Democratic Party of Germany, is a nationally represented political party in Germany and also in many state parliaments with its ideas for environmental policy, social policy and budgetary policy. A central goal of the party and its program is educational justice and upward mobility for young people and children from educationally disadvantaged backgrounds. Politically re-established in the German post-war period 1945. The SPD gets in Berlin (Berlin) currently with 455,138 votes 25.5%. At the same time 24.6% of the secondary votes with 439.387 votes. As a party, it has an almost equal number of members as the Christian Democratic Union, in 2017 it gained an extremely large number of members due to the arrival of Martin Schulz, whom many previously only knew from the EU Parliament. Small and large families are more specifically supported in their very own life plans. Here you can find more about the SPD and the current election program of the SPD or find more about the SPD on Wikipedia.

FDP (Die Liberalen), the federal party with election program

, the basic idea of the FDP and its representatives in terms of content has always been political liberalism. Thereby there are many election forecasts in newspapers. Let’s take a look at the current projection for the FDP. Predicted convinced the FDP on 25,867 voters, converted are that 1.4% of the voters here in Berlin and 3.6% of the secondary votes. Read more about the FDP here.

Die Fraktion Die Linke: Left Party

The Left, the Left Party, was formed in 2007, through the merger of the SPD spin-off (WASG) and the then East German Linkspartei.PDS. There are many election projections. Here is the latest projection for Berlin. will win the party 18.5% of the second votes. Further information on Die Linke.

Principles and election programme of Bündnis 90 / Die Grünen

Bündnis 90/Die Grünen stand for environmentally friendly policies with modern content, at that time the Greens were still considered alternative, today they have arrived in the middle. An essential thematic factor of their politics is environmental policy. A prestige project was the nuclear phase-out. According to their own statements, the Greens stand with their green policy for an ecological, cosmopolitan and just country. From data protection to green economy and integration of refugees. New election forecasts appear constantly in newspapers and news. 243.259 people will vote for the Greens in the upcoming federal election, that is 13.6% of the voters. Discover more about Die Grü nen here or read more about Die Grünen on Wikipedia.

Projections for the Alternative for Germany (AfD)

The AfD, Alternative for Germany, was founded in 2013 as a reaction to the euro bailout and has always been very active in its media work. In its first European election, it also won supra-regional mandates for the first time and entered 11 state parliaments. What do people vote for in Berlin? 67,483 people will vote for the AfD in the upcoming election, which is 3.8% of the electorate this year. Who is the AfD? The AfD is located far to the right of the Union parties, the AfD is classified as right-wing populist and controlled and influenced by right-wing populism, which many journalists also rightly critical.Detailed information on the AfD.

This is what people are interested in this year

These policy areas will decide the next election campaign:

1. Agricultural policy
2. Health policy
3. Media policy
4. Energy policy
5. Education policy
6. Defence policy
7. European policy
8. Food policy
9. German reparation policy

Projection for constituency 911 (Berlin)

The forecast for Berlin constituency. Read here the statistical projection for Berlin’s most important city Berlin.

Basis/Source: The Federal Election Commissioner / Wiesbaden 2016 / Result of the election to the 18th German Bundestag on 22 September 2013 converted to the 299 constituencies in the delimitation determined for the 2017 Bundestag election.

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