Andorra Signs €89K Deal with FEDA to Modernise Meritxell Sanctuary Lighting

The Andorran government and FEDA, the country's electricity company, have signed an agreement to renovate the lighting system at the Santuary of Our Lady of Meritxell, with a total cost of 89,000 euros.

The deal, formalised on Thursday by Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Mònica Bonell and FEDA's director general Sílvia Calvó, marks the 50th anniversary of the new sanctuary's construction. It covers a technical diagnosis, project design, and works to rehabilitate and modernise the existing installation, incorporating LED technology, wiring upgrades, and improvements to interior and access lighting.

The project emphasises energy efficiency, sustainability, and respect for the site's patrimonial, cultural, and architectural values. FEDA estimates the changes will reduce energy consumption by four to five times compared to the current system, which relies mainly on outdated mercury vapour lamps and conventional fixtures. While some lights were updated in recent years, the focus will be on older areas and entrances, with minimal changes to light point distribution and potential additions assessed during works.

The government will handle tendering and awarding the 82,000-euro works contract. FEDA will conduct the 7,000-euro technical diagnosis and contribute 10,000 euros towards overall funding. The company has also provided expertise throughout project development.

Bonell described the initiative as a long-overdue task, accelerated by the anniversary celebrations. She welcomed FEDA's financial support alongside its technical advice, noting the upgrades extend beyond fixtures to address broader electrical deficiencies from years of wear. Calvó framed FEDA's involvement as part of its national heritage commitment, highlighting its track record on similar church lighting projects and preference for sustainable efforts.

The works will not finish in time for the Meritxell festival, but both parties expect the intervention to modernise an infrastructure decades overdue for comprehensive renewal, ensuring its preservation for years ahead.