Iberdrola has celebrated its 125th anniversary in Bilbao with an event dedicated to honouring the individuals and institutions that have shaped the company’s long history. The ceremony, attended by the lehendakari, Imanol Pradales, included the presentation of a commemorative book that reflects on Iberdrola’s journey and its role in what the International Energy Agency refers to as the “era of electricity”.The book is organised into three main sections.
The first recounts Iberdrola’s origins in Bilbao in 1901 and traces its development over the decades. The second describes the company’s major transformation during the past 25 years. Through significant investment in electricity networks, renewable energy, and energy storage, as well as its expansion into international markets, Iberdrola has grown to become the largest electricity company in Europe and one of the two largest globally by market capitalization.
The third section looks ahead to the future of the electricity sector and examines how Iberdrola aims to contribute to an increasingly electrified global economy.During his address, Iberdrola’s Executive Chairman, Ignacio Galán, explained that the publication is primarily a tribute to the people who have contributed to the company’s growth and service to society.
He emphasised that Iberdrola’s current position is the result of a collective effort and noted that, despite its global presence, the company has always preserved its Basque identity.Elixabete Etxanobe, the General Representative of Bizkaia, highlighted the importance of a supportive environment for companies to thrive.
She noted that strong societies foster strong industries and pointed to Iberdrola as an example of a local company that has become a global leader while continuing to boost the region’s ecosystem of SMEs, start-ups, and talent.Lehendakari Imanol Pradales also addressed the audience, recalling that Iberdrola emerged during the first wave of Basque industrialisation.
He stated that, 125 years later, the company remains an essential player in promoting industrial and technological development in both the Basque Country and Europe. He stressed the need for a national regulatory framework that encourages investment in electricity networks and fully utilises the European Union’s economic and fiscal tools, noting that the future of industrial employment and new projects in the region depends on these policies.
The event was attended by the Mayor of Bilbao, Juan Mari Aburto, members of Iberdrola’s board and senior management, and representatives of employees, retirees, suppliers, shareholders, and other groups closely associated with the company’s history. Guests enjoyed musical performances by the Bilbao Choral Society and the Bilbao Symphony Orchestra.
The event was hosted by Anne Igartiburu.In addition to the formal ceremony, Iberdrola plans to extend its anniversary celebrations to the wider public. A large open-air event will be held, featuring a music festival with nationally and internationally recognised artists, followed by a light show visible across much of Bilbao.
These activities are part of a broader programme taking place throughout Spain under the theme “125 years of light”. The programme includes technology and art exhibitions, concerts, community events, and the illumination of significant buildings and monuments. Through these initiatives, Iberdrola aims to share its long-standing commitment to progress, innovation, and the benefits of electrification with society as a whole.
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