Aesa Energía, a renowned company specializing in the development of large-scale renewable energy projects, is set to revolutionize the energy landscape with its ambitious green hydrogen generation project called Stellar.
This groundbreaking endeavor, located in the municipality of Cistierna, aims to combine a photovoltaic park with a hydrogen manufacturing plant, propelling the region towards a sustainable and clean energy future. The facilities will be strategically positioned near the municipal water treatment plant, in close proximity to the Cistierna industrial estate, showcasing the integration of renewable energy and advanced technology.
The development of the Stellar project requires a substantial investment of 120 million euros. This significant commitment will not only drive environmental progress but also stimulate economic growth by creating approximately 120 direct jobs. Additionally, the construction phase of the hydrogen plant and the photovoltaic park will necessitate the employment of nearly a thousand workers over a two-year period, further boosting local employment opportunities.
At the heart of the project lies the hydrogen plant, which will consume approximately 300 cubic meters of water. Once the entire transformation process is complete, around 150 cubic meters of water will be returned to the river, as the remaining portion is utilized as renewable energy. The hydrogen plant will feature an impressive electrolyzer power of 20 megawatts, ensuring a substantial contribution to the green energy grid. To facilitate the transportation of hydrogen to various geographical locations, the existing Hidrocantábrico pipelines will be utilized, offering a reliable and efficient means of distribution. Moreover, the strategic location of the Vidanes industrial estate, known for its high electricity consumption, presents an ideal opportunity to establish industries that can benefit from the cost-effective hydrogen production offered by the project.
Parallel to the hydrogen plant, the Stellar project will also encompass a vast photovoltaic park spanning approximately 200 hectares in the Valporquero de Rueda area. This expansive solar installation is projected to generate around 100 megawatts of electricity, contributing significantly to the renewable energy capacity of the region. The land currently serves as a grazing ground for a Palencian rancher, providing the neighborhood council with an annual income of approximately 30,000 euros. However, the installation of solar panels will substantially boost this revenue, providing an estimated 180,000 euros per year. Furthermore, after just two years, the town will enjoy the benefits of free electricity for public lighting and residential households. These remarkable advantages have been meticulously analyzed and studied by Aesa Energía, underscoring the company’s commitment to maximizing the project’s positive impact on the local community.
Currently, the Stellar project is in the feasibility and planning study phase. It has garnered widespread support from local stakeholders, including the Cistierna and La Ercina Town Halls, as well as prominent associations in the area such as Adsacier (Sabero, Cistierna, and La Ercina Development Association) and Ciuden (Ciudad de la Energy, associated with Just Transition). This collaborative effort between public and private entities showcases the collective commitment to achieving sustainable energy goals and embracing the transformative potential of green hydrogen and photovoltaic technology.
In summary, Aesa Energía’s Stellar project represents a pioneering initiative that merges renewable energy innovation and advanced technology. By integrating a hydrogen manufacturing plant with a photovoltaic park, the project holds the promise of propelling the region towards a greener and more sustainable future. With strong support from local communities and key stakeholders, the Stellar project has the potential to revolutionize the energy landscape, create jobs, and contribute significantly to global efforts in combating climate change.
