Monitoring results reveal that the solutions promote algal growth and create optimal conditions for recolonization by diverse marine organisms, such as sponges, crustaceans, mollusks, sea urchins, and fish, demonstrating a clear ecological uplift compared to standard systems. The wide range of ecological niches occupied by different organisms indicates a healthy and stable ecosystem with high biodiversity which is associated with greater resilience to environmental disturbances and changes in the environment.

Marine life is thriving along the route, and the cable protection has blended seamlessly with the natural habitat, becoming nearly invisible in many areas, thus evidencing the ability of this solution to integrate cohesively into marine ecosystems.

• Tailor solutions to fit surrounding ecosystems: In a specific rocky seabed area, there was no alternative but to open a trench using the specialized “rock trenching” method, which necessitates a structural solution to shield the cable from external damage and prevent interruptions to the power supply on both islands. Traditional measures such as the use of concrete, bags, or rocks are typically employed, but these have a significant impact on the local ecosystem. Considering the need to preserve the remarkable wealth of marine biodiversity present in the surrounding Marine Protected Area Natura 2000 between Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, bio-enhancing concrete technology was proposed to build the cable protection infrastructure.
• Leverage expertise through collaboration: Designing effective NID solutions demands input from diverse experts. For this project, the solution was developed through a dynamic and collaborative process, leveraging Red Eléctrica’s experience in the design, installation, and protection of subsea cables, Tecnoambiente’s experience in monitoring and evaluating project environmental impact on the marine environment, and ECOncrete’s proven technology and expertise in the development of innovative eco-engineering solutions and Sisgen expertise in the cable laying and cable protection installation works.
• Align with corporate sustainability frameworks: This is essential for advancing net positive biodiversity goals, and ensuring project success. For instance, ECOncrete’s solutions align with Red Eléctrica’s commitment to sustainability by minimizing environmental impact, promoting biodiversity recovery, and justifying a higher initial investment through long-term ecological benefits.