The Canary Islands, along with the rest of Spain, will bid farewell to the biannual clock changes that have marked the country's timekeeping for decades. Starting in 2026, the practice of adjusting the clocks forward in March and back in October will become a thing of the past.
For years, Spain has adhered to the twice-yearly ritual of changing the clocks, a tradition aimed at maximising natural daylight and reducing energy consumption. However, in recent years, this practice has faced mounting criticism. Many questioned not only its effectiveness in saving energy but also its impact on health, productivity, and overall well-being.
The end of clock changes in the Canary Islands has now been confirmed by the Official State Gazette (BOE). While the change will officially take place in 2026, there had been speculation about an earlier implementation if a consensus between experts and citizens could be reached. Although this consensus was not achieved, the Canary Islands, with their unique time zone and geographical location, were always considered a likely candidate to adopt the change before the rest of the country.
Why the Change?
The debate over the clock change has been a hot topic in the Canary Islands for years. Although the one-hour difference from mainland Spain has allowed for some adaptation, the disruption to daily life remained a point of contention. Maintaining a consistent time throughout the year is seen as a way to simplify routines and enhance quality of life.
One of the most significant benefits of abandoning clock changes is the potential improvement in sleep patterns and mental health. Many people struggle with the shift in daylight hours, leading to sleep disturbances and a misalignment of the body's natural circadian rhythm.
What Will Change?
If the current system of changing the clocks in March and October is eliminated, the distribution of natural light will shift. Summer evenings will feel longer, while winter mornings will see less daylight. This shift will require careful coordination with the rest of Spain and Europe, particularly in industries such as commerce, aviation, and international communications.
For most residents, the change is expected to bring a boost in well-being by maintaining a stable schedule and avoiding the biannual disruption. Experts have long argued that a consistent time zone would lead to better sleep quality and a more balanced daily routine.
The Final Time Change
The upcoming clock change on 30th March 2025 will be the last time residents of the Canary Islands will adjust their clocks for daylight saving time. After this, the archipelago will remain on a stable time schedule, potentially paving the way for the rest of Spain to follow suit.
This historic decision sets the stage for a permanent shift in how time is observed, signalling the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in Spain's approach to timekeeping.
