As countries seek viable solutions to increase the consumption of renewable energy, hydrogen has emerged as a leading contender to drive this transition effectively.
In Spain, a hydrogen revolution is already underway, with hydrogen generators, or service stations for hydrogen, becoming a critical part of the change in the road transport sector. By 2030, supplying road vehicles with hydrogen at these pumps is expected every 250 kilometers, facilitated by approximately 150 hydrogen plants planned for installation.
At the heart of this hydrogen transformation stands Calvera, a Zaragoza-based company playing a pivotal role in the European hydrogen landscape. Calvera, with its expertise in the storage and transport of high-pressure compressed gases, is one of the few companies involved in all phases of the hydrogen logistics chain and distribution. The third-generation family-run business aims to expand its operations significantly in 2023, targeting a remarkable 75% growth.
The company’s journey began in 1954 when Julio Calvera initiated operations related to the steel and metal industry. It was in 1980 that hydrogen became a significant part of Calvera’s offerings. Over the years, Calvera forged partnerships with multinational industrial gas companies, expanding its reach from the national level to a global scale.
In the 1980s, Calvera took its initial steps in hydrogen-related projects. However, it was not until 2003 when the boom in renewables ignited widespread interest in hydrogen. Since then, Calvera has been at the forefront of groundbreaking projects, including the delivery of two of Europe’s largest hydrogen plants in Poland, capable of dispensing 1.6 tons of hydrogen per day. These plants can supply hydrogen to 60 buses and 40 cars daily, showcasing the immense potential of the technology.
Emphasizing the significance of their role in the thriving hydrogen sector, José Luis Fernández Bris, the CEO of Calvera, acknowledges the company’s contribution to decarbonizing society. A recent accomplishment includes the design and manufacture of the world’s largest capacity trailer for transporting hydrogen under pressure.
For Calvera, safety remains a top priority. The company has increased investments and resources to achieve ISO 45001 certification, ensuring safety standards throughout its operations. Reducing its own carbon footprint is another key goal on Calvera’s agenda, with the identification of green projects to further contribute to sustainability.
Telemetry and sensorization are playing an increasingly vital role in Calvera’s operations, enabling monitoring of hydrogen compression and filling processes through digital platforms. With support from European funds and the Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge-IDAE, Calvera is set to expand its production warehouses from 9,000 to 24,000 square meters. Furthermore, the company’s workforce will grow from 100 to 150 employees by 2024.
Calvera also envisions international growth, aiming to establish a presence in Europe, the United Kingdom, and the USA. An R&D-focused subsidiary is in the works to drive innovation. At the project level, Calvera is exploring the creation of “infinite hydrogen generators” capable of continuous hydrogen dispensing, independent of the type of vehicle.
As Spain and the world march towards a greener and sustainable future, companies like Calvera are leading the charge, propelling the hydrogen revolution forward and making a significant impact in the fight against climate change.
