Spain’s Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (MITECO) has announced the award of €150 million in funding to twelve pioneering projects under the H2 Pioneers Programme, marking a significant step forward in the country’s green hydrogen ambitions.
These projects, carefully selected through a rigorous evaluation process, will collectively mobilize an investment of over €578 million, demonstrating Spain’s unwavering commitment to harnessing the potential of renewable hydrogen as a cornerstone of its energy transition.
Advancing Green Hydrogen Production and Utilization
The H2 Pioneers Programme, financed by NextGenEU funds through the Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan (PRTR), aims to foster innovative initiatives that showcase the viability of green hydrogen-based business models and accelerate market uptake. The twelve selected projects embody this spirit, encompassing a diverse range of applications across various industries, including heavy mobility, port operations, and industrial processes.
Key Highlights of the Selected Projects
- Total electrolysis capacity of 309 MW, contributing to Spain’s target of 300-600 MW by 2024 and 4 GW by 2030.
- Five projects focused on green hydrogen applications in heavy mobility, including hydrogen stations, hydrogen-powered vehicles, and forklift adaptations.
- Three projects centered on port-based hydrogen utilization, fostering sustainable maritime transport and port operations.
- Ten projects located in Just Transition and/or Demographic Challenge areas, aligning with Spain’s commitment to equitable economic development.
Driving Spain’s Green Hydrogen Leadership
The H2 Pioneers Programme builds upon the success of its first iteration, which also exhausted its available funding, demonstrating the strong interest and potential of green hydrogen in Spain. The second call’s focus on larger projects and renewable energy integration signals a maturing sector and Spain’s determination to establish itself as a leader in green hydrogen technologies.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The H2 Pioneers Programme is expected to generate significant economic benefits, mobilizing substantial investments and creating employment opportunities across the green hydrogen value chain. Additionally, the projects’ focus on industrial applications and heavy mobility promises to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable transportation solutions.
A Collective Effort Towards a Sustainable Future
The selection of these twelve pioneering projects marks a crucial milestone in Spain’s green hydrogen journey. With the support of the H2 Pioneers Programme, these projects will pave the way for the widespread adoption of green hydrogen technologies, contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future for Spain and beyond.
