Spain's Industry Ministry launches €600 million CO2 cost‑compensation scheme

The Spanish Ministry of Industry and Tourism opened the application window on 30 July for a 2026 grant programme worth €600 million. The subsidies aim to offset the indirect cost of CO₂ emissions for electro‑intensive industries, helping to keep electricity prices competitive against producers in third‑country markets.

The scheme expands eligibility to 22 additional sectors and subsectors, adding organic chemicals, fertilizers and ceramic tile manufacturing to previously covered industries such as steel, iron casting and paper. Technical parameters were adjusted, raising the maximum aid intensity from 75 % to 80 % of indirect emission costs. The programme is considered vital for major regional firms, including ArcelorMittal and Asturiana de Zinc, to reduce their energy bills and preserve jobs.

The Ministry highlighted that the funding level has been doubled in recent years, reflecting the government's support for the competitiveness and employment of heavy industry.