Spain advances chemical industry decarbonisation and biometano rollout

Spanish industry is intensifying efforts to decarbonise its chemical sector. In Álava, a plant has fully electrified its industrial heat by replacing diesel boilers with a solar‑energy system coupled to molten‑salt thermal storage, cutting more than 1,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually. The project relies on large‑scale self‑consumption photovoltaics, with roughly 85% of the required power generated on‑site, and is supported by EU NextGenerationEU funding that lowers financial risk for such investments. Parallel initiatives aim to introduce green hydrogen as a high‑temperature fuel, particularly in the Valencian Community, where infrastructure is being built to supply refineries and chemical factories.

At the same time, the Spanish government is drafting a Real Decreto to boost biometano production from organic waste. The decree sets mandatory market‑penetration targets, starting at 0.5% in 2028 and rising to 6% by the mid‑2030s, which would require about 350 plants compared with the current 20. Studies estimate Spain could mobilise 25‑35 TWh of waste‑derived energy annually, potentially delivering up to €3 billion in yearly economic activity and creating 15‑20 000 quality jobs. The rollout faces regulatory uncertainty and local opposition in some regions, underscoring the need for clear rules and community engagement.