In a momentous announcement, Aleida Alcaide reveals that the government is about to present the regulations that will regulate artificial intelligence in Spain. The main objective of this measure is to establish a control and supervision framework to ensure compliance with European standards, especially in «high-risk» systems that may affect fundamental rights.
At the SER Meeting on Smart City and AI, the Mayor of Rota, Javier Ruiz Arana, highlighted the benefits of implementing automated and smart grids in improving efficiency and reducing costs. Experts in criminal law, representatives of Red.es and high-tech companies also participated in the event, highlighting the importance of balancing innovation with protection.
The Regulation of Artificial Intelligence in Spain
Aleida Alcaide emphasised the need to strike a balance between innovation and protection in the use of artificial intelligence. While most AI systems will not be heavily regulated, it is crucial to set clear limits to avoid risks such as content manipulation, false images and the misuse of algorithms in public decisions.
In the national context, there has been an accelerated growth in the adoption of AI technologies, with a significant increase in both young people and companies. Spain ranks seventh in the world in the development of AI, as a result of a strategy driven since 2020 and strengthened with public investment in 2024.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Businesses and Cities
The development of artificial intelligence in Spain has reached large companies, revealing a gap with SMEs that is to be reduced. The director general also highlighted the importance of digital sovereignty, promoting the ability to decide on technologies and values in order to move towards an ecosystem of its own.
One outstanding project is ALIA, a public model of artificial intelligence that seeks to offer a transparent and ethical alternative, especially useful for strategic sectors such as public administration. This initiative makes it possible to analyse and correct biases, encouraging a more responsible use of these tools.
At the local level, the transformation driven by AI will be most visible in cities, with applications in mobility, waste management, sustainability and citizen care. Aleida Alcaide emphasised the importance of educating new generations in the responsible use of technology, aware of its risks and benefits.
Smart Cities and Enterprise Development
The mayor of Rota detailed the progress made in the implementation of a smart city model to improve the management of public services and boost local economic development. This approach is adapted to the particularities of the locality, promoting the progressive digitalisation and integration of new technologies in the municipal administration.
Arturo Rodríguez of red.es highlighted the strategy for financing and developing smart city projects, with significant investment to improve public management and quality of life. Programmes aimed at harnessing urban information to foster innovation and collaboration between administrations and companies are promoted.
Practical Application of Artificial Intelligence in Enterprises
The conference on artificial intelligence and smart cities addressed the challenges of digital transformation in real companies and services. Representatives from different organisations shared concrete experiences in the use of AI, both in business management and in the field of smart cities.
It was highlighted that artificial intelligence is already being harnessed to improve the management of services such as water, technological surveillance and business competitiveness. The need for specialised talent and the importance of collaboration between companies, universities and training centres were key aspects discussed at the table.
Source: cadenaser.com

