Reimagining the original concept

Despite UPM’s support for the project, navigating uncharted legal territory proved challenging. After months of hard legislative work, the idea was ultimately rejected, as both parties couldn’t reach a partnership agreement between the community and the university. We weren’t the only ones facing these difficulties. Three out of the four university communities involved in the project encountered difficulties. However, the idea of the South Campus Community transforming its environment and becoming a driver of innovation remained. We believe that real change comes from people. For this reason, the project promoters reimagined the original concept. Instead of focusing on UPM buildings, we proposed implementing the idea in buildings within our district and neighbourhood. This approach allows us to collaborate with other local communities, thus expanding the potential social impact of our project. We approached educational communities in the area to establish partnerships for these facilities, and we are delighted to say that we have secured the first installation agreement with the Centro Cultural Palomeras school, a 40-year-old school less than 1km from our Campus.

The school will host the installation, co-financed both by families associated in the school and by members of the Campus Sur community. The initial objective is to facilitate collective learning through a real micro-financed installation, where shares start from as little as 20€, offering for a modest return. Ecooo, a company experienced in managing community photovoltaic plants, will provide support and expertise. Beyond collective learning and economic return, our initiative aims to foster community ties, bridge primary and secondary education with university, and reduce carbon emissions.