Water Resources in Spain: Management, Infrastructure and Policy

Water and Water Resources

Irrigated agriculture consumes almost 80% of total water in Spain, as it improves the performance of agricultural farms. Energy production relies on hydroelectric power, while urban consumption accounts for 14% of the total. The evacuation of waste from agriculture, livestock, and urban and industrial areas has caused a substantial decline in water quality.

The Water Balance

The water balance relates existing water resources to their usage. In Spain, this balance is positive, yet the figure remains high. Several issues prevent the full utilization of these resources:

• Irregularity: Water availability from rivers is characterized by seasonal and interannual irregularity.
• Spatial Distribution: Resources are unevenly distributed.
• Concentrated Demand: Demand is concentrated in areas of economic and demographic dynamism, particularly the Mediterranean, where resources are scarce.
• Infrastructure: The existing network of dams is insufficient to cover annual demand.
• Efficiency: Water losses occur due to inadequate irrigation systems, agricultural pipe leaks, and urban infrastructure issues.

Water Policy

Water policy has two main purposes:

• Regulation of Water Resources: Implemented by the Water Law, which states that all surface water and the channels through which it moves belong to the nation.
• Management of Water Resources: Carried out through water planning, where Basin Hydrological Plans identify the needs and works of each basin. The National Water Plan coordinates watershed plans and general actions.

Key objectives include achieving water self-sufficiency for each basin, improving water quality, preventing floods and droughts, and promoting research and technological innovation.

Water Infrastructure

Water works are infrastructures created to regulate resources and improve water quality. To regulate rivers, numerous dams, canals, and diversions have been built.

• Reservoirs: Large expanses of water stored by dams, primarily used for electricity production and alleviating chronic water shortages.
• Distribution Channels: Designed to cater to population centers, industry, and irrigation.
• Transfers: The movement of water between surplus and deficit basins.
• Aquifers: Exploited by wells and galleries for agricultural, industrial, and urban use.
• Desalination: The process of using seawater, which has become simplified and more affordable.
• Treatment Plants: Water treatment plants prepare water for consumption, while wastewater treatment plants treat sewage to prevent contamination.