Teatro Real in Madrid has been honoured with the International Opera Award 2025 in the Sustainability category. The jury commended the installation of a walkable photovoltaic system, described as the first of its kind to be implemented in a historic building worldwide.
Onyx Solar glass on a listed roof
The project involved the integration of 2,198 walkable solar glass elements supplied by Spanish manufacturer Onyx Solar. The system has an installed capacity of 169 kilowatts and, according to Teatro Real, is expected to generate around 190 megawatt hours of electricity per year, reducing CO₂ emissions by an estimated 263 tonnes annually.
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The installation emphasised the preservation of the building’s historic fabric, which dates back to 1818. Nuria Gallego, Director of Infrastructure and General Services at Teatro Real, emphasises: “We have fulfilled our commitment by using the highest quality materials, and our goal is to become a net zero energy building.”
First heritage building with energy savings certificate
Teatro Real is the first heritage-protected building (Bien de Interés Cultural, BIC) in Spain to be included in the national system for energy savings certificates (Certificados de Ahorro Energético, CAEs). The project was supported by €5.3 million from the Next Generation EU programme.
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The prize was awarded by Sofia Dimtsa, Chief Corporate Affairs & Communications Officer of the PPC Group. The jury highlighted that, with its photovoltaic system, Teatro Real sets a benchmark for innovative and sustainable energy policy in the cultural sector. The international award underscores the importance of modern photovoltaic solutions for the preservation of historic buildings. (nhp)
