Businesses in Burgos are eager to seize the opportunity for the province to be part of Spain’s emerging plans for the development and transportation of green hydrogen.
As the world seeks alternative energy sources to replace fossil fuels, the renewable gas has gained popularity for its potential to decarbonize various sectors. The Castilian and Leonese Hydrogen Association (H2CyL) is actively working on a project proposal to be submitted to Enagás, the gas operator, in response to their expression of interest for the country’s hydrogen network development.
H2CyL recognizes the significant advantages that connecting the hydrogen pipelines of the Eje de la Plata and the Ebro Valley would bring to the country, particularly to the provinces of Valladolid and Burgos. The association is finalizing its project, which will be completed before the year-end and subsequently reviewed by Enagás. The region’s high natural gas consumption, as evidenced by data from the National Commission for Markets and Competition (CNMC), makes it an attractive candidate for inclusion in the hydrogen network.
Burgos boasts a substantial industrial sector, with industrial energy consumption reaching 5,436 gigawatts in 2021, surpassing regions like the Community of Madrid and the Principality of Asturias. Several companies are already engaged in green hydrogen generation and consumption projects in the province, including Ibereólica in Lerma, Sener in Villalonquéjar and Burgos Este industrial estates, and Ansasol in Pinilla Trasmonte. These ongoing initiatives demonstrate the province’s commitment to clean energy.
H2CyL’s current efforts involve understanding the energy requirements of each municipality in Burgos, primarily focusing on Aranda, Burgos, and Miranda, based on their industrial demands. This information will guide the determination of the hydrogen pipeline routes. The challenge lies in incorporating the evolving plans and projects into the proposal effectively.
The Junta de Castilla y León has expressed its support for the project, aligning with the cause advocated by Burgos businesses. The Minister of Economy and Finance, Carlos Fernández Carriedo, has proposed a hydrogen pipeline connection between Tordesillas (Valladolid) and Haro (La Rioja) via Burgos. This trunk connection, spanning over 200 kilometers, aims to supply significant consumption hubs, complementing the existing natural gas networks and potentially streamlining processes.
