Called the “green architecture of the future”, a carbon-free village of bioclimatic homes is being launched on Tenerife.

The Institute of Technology and Renewable Energies (ITER), founded by the Tenerife Island Government, is showcasing the village of bioclimatic homes on Friday, March 19, 2010.  Opening to the public in September 2010, these innovative houses generate zero carbon emissions.

Situated in the southern district of Granadilla, the village consists of 25 bioclimatic houses and a visitor centre made from ecological resources.   They are self-sufficient homes and do not use external energy sources.

Says Tenerife Tourism Corporation:

“Testament to Tenerife’s commitment to responsible tourism, the project aims to encourage sustainable practices throughout the tourism industry and interaction with the local culture via the rental of the houses and visitors centre, which has a selection of rooms and a spacious auditorium for training, talks and conferences.”

Tenerife plans to generate more than half of the island’s energy through wind and solar power sources.  The island is already home to one of the biggest solar photovoltaic plants (PV’s) in the world.

On the island, other proposed environmental initiatives include producing biodiesel to run cars and power stations; desalination plants and a network of bicycle lanes and a bike rental program.

Images courtesy of Tenerife Tourism Corporation.