The Royal Spanish Golf Federation (RFEG) and the Association of Golf Courses (AECG) jointly organized, on January 19, 2024, a webinar divided into two parts that addressed key issues related to energy efficiency and digitalization in the golf sector.

WEBINAR | What is the Energy Saving Certificate (CAE) and how does it work?

Energy Efficiency Financing with Energy Saving Certificates (CAES)

The first part of the webinar focused on exploring the significant opportunities offered by the innovative financing tool known as Energy Saving Certificates (CAES). Fernando Diaz, R&D consultant and energy efficiency expert at Zabala Innovation, explained to the audience the origin and meticulous procedure governing the issuance and use of CAES.

During her presentation, the participants were guided through a detailed tour that covered everything from the conceptual foundations to the practical applications of this valuable tool.

The second part of the webinar, significantly more practical, was led by Rafael Herrero, representative of Bettergy and partner of the Spanish Association of Golf Courses (AECG). During this phase, Herrero illustrated with concrete examples the various efficiency gains that arise from implementing CAES in the specific context of golf courses.

In addition, strategies were outlined and success stories were analyzed, providing the audience with a deeper understanding of how these tools can be effectively applied in the sector.

Potential of Energy Saving Certificates (CAES)

In conclusion, Energy Saving Certificates (EACs) are emerging as an accessible and flexible financial tool, open to a wide range of beneficiaries, regardless of their legal structure. This innovative mechanism proves to be a valuable complement to the savings derived from efficiency investments, allowing the economic benefits obtained through such investments to be added to the payment for the sale of said savings.

It is crucial to emphasize that participation in the CAES program requires the accumulation of a series of efficiency investments, with the goal of reaching a minimum of 30 megawatt-hours per year. Furthermore, it is essential to understand that CAES do not have an incentive effect and are independent of the amount of investment made, making them an equitable and effective tool.

The timing flexibility adds a distinctive element to the CAES, as investments made from February 2023 onwards can be included in the program. Although the application can be submitted after the investment, a preliminary estimate is recommended for more efficient management.

In this process, having expert support is essential. Zabala Innovation presents itself as a valuable resource, offering comprehensive assistance throughout the process. Furthermore, Bettergy, acting as the delegated entity, plays a key role as an intermediary, facilitating the acquisition of savings and ensuring the successful implementation of the CAES (Certificates of Economic and Social Action).

Taken together, these elements consolidate the CAES as a strategic and adaptable tool to promote energy efficiency in various sectors.

2024 Call for Proposals for Digitization Project Grants

The webinar, presented by Daniel García, expert consultant and director of Zabala Innovation's Seville office, concluded with a detailed analysis of the 2024 call for proposals for "Grants for 'Last Mile' Digitization Projects in Tourism Companies" from the Ministry of Industry and Tourism (MINCOTUR). This program, designed to promote digitization in the tourism sector, introduced an innovative approach by opening participation to entities involved in sports activities, encompassing both companies and associations.

A key feature of this call for proposals is its grant structure, which is tailored to the diversity of the business sector. Large companies are eligible for financial support of 15%, while small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can benefit from coverage of 100%, depending on the specific project line. Similarly, associations and federations related to sports activities receive support of 70%, thus establishing an inclusive framework that encompasses different stakeholders within the tourism sector.

This government initiative not only responds to the growing need for digitalization in the tourism sector, but also opens up new opportunities for sports entities, thus contributing to the modernization and adaptation of various areas of the economy.

Participation in this call not only implies significant financial support, but also represents a fundamental boost towards technological updating, favoring the competitiveness and long-term sustainability of the participating companies and entities.

The call for applications closes on March 13, giving golf courses the opportunity to implement and deploy technologies to improve the tourist experience.

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