Spain Accelerates Hydrogen and Gas Infrastructure to Lead in Green Energy Transition
Spain is making significant strides towards a renewable energy future by prioritising hydrogen and renewable gases over solar and wind power. In recent months, the government announced plans to develop a comprehensive national hydrogen system including a new regulated market and supportive infrastructure. This initiative aims to create a stable and transparent environment for investments fostering the development of green molecular energy sources.
Vice President Sara Aagesen revealed that Spain has already mobilised over three billion euros in support of green hydrogen projects. Additionally, the government is initiating public consultations on two major decrees providing a total of 465 million euros in public funds to accelerate renewable hydrogen production and decarbonisation efforts. One decree allocates 415 million euros to projects vying for the European Hydrogen Bank auction with a focus on maritime and aviation sectors. The other commits 50 million euros to projects electrifying industrial thermal processes or consuming renewable fuels directly.
These initiatives are part of Spain's broader strategy aligned with the European Union's ambitions. Notably, the H2Med project regarded as Europe's first major green hydrogen corridor is progressing swiftly through administrative and engineering phases. The project involves building a hydrogen pipeline from Spain to France paving the way for large-scale hydrogen transport across Europe. Additionally, the BarMar project a submarine pipeline connecting Barcelona and Marseille is under construction and expected to be operational by 2030. These advances highlight Spain's commitment to establishing a robust hydrogen infrastructure to support its decarbonisation goals.
European institutions have also underscored hydrogen's importance. European Commission Vice President Teresa Ribera emphasised the EU's strong support for hydrogen development citing projects like H2Med as critical milestones in the continent's clean energy transition. Meanwhile industry leaders like Arturo Gonzalo of Enagas confirmed that Spain's national gas grid and H2Med are progressing according to plan with operational dates and technical viability assured. These developments demonstrate Spain's strategic focus on establishing hydrogen as a central element in its energy landscape reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting sustainable growth.