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The Movistar Arena: green energy for cutting-edge sustainable architecture
Solar panels covering the roof of the Movistar Arena.
It is striking to see it empty—devoid of sound, without the roar of a concert or the buzz of game day. It sits in repose, dormant, lacking that singular vibration typical of spaces that have come to form a city's soul. Then, a 'click' is heard; the lights flicker on, and suddenly the bustle intensifies.
The machinery begins to gear up. Workers move in perfect coordination so that this sleeping giant awakens in record time. Then a ball appears, hitting the parquet with a rhythmic bounce, merging with the hands of players from an Endesa League team. Warm-ups begin, and the trickle of people into the stands grows into a steady stream. Five minutes to tip-off. Scarcely a seat remains empty. The TV production crew is ready, and coaches are fine-tuning their final instructions. In just a few moments, the atmosphere shifts from silence to raw emotion—to a very special energy.
The interior of the Movistar Arena, in calm, waiting to host the next event.
Solar self-consumption at the Movistar Arena
It was with this same sense of excitement that I recall being tasked with supervising the solar photovoltaic self-consumption installation at the Movistar Arena—this iconic venue originally known as the Palacio de los Deportes. This challenge represented more than mere project oversight; it offered me the chance to help transform a landmark so deeply rooted in the heart of Madrid into a sustainable building.
Flanked by Goya and Jorge Juan streets, the Arena is a piece of futuristic architecture featuring a transformable rotational design. However, its true personality lies in its versatility and capacity for transformation, hosting everything from elite sporting events and musical spectacles to cultural activities.
Technology integrates with the Madrid landscape, showcasing the Movistar Arena's commitment to decarbonisation.
On a technical level, the most significant element of the installation is the building’s roof. Reflecting its avant-garde architectural style, the roof is curved and utilises a bespoke anchoring system. By strictly adhering to the safety specifications required for this type of structure, we successfully implemented 2,300 m2 of solar panels. This provides the building with a self-consumption capacity able to meet approximately 21% of its annual energy demand.
On a personal level, as I mentioned before, I feel fortunate to have contributed to the sustainable transformation of this extraordinary Madrid landmark. It is a privilege to be part of the ongoing decarbonisation process within our society—a journey that ensures a world more respectful of the environment.
By Rubén Sánchez Jiménez, e-Industries Project Manager at Endesa.