Energy transition in Spain is making a landmark move with the consolidation of renewable hydrogen as a key pillar in the race towards decarbonization. In 2024, with the publication of the new Catalog of Technological Capabilities by the Spanish Hydrogen Technology Platform (PTe H2), the prominent role of Spanish companies in developing innovative solutions across the entire value chain becomes clear.

The president of PTe H2, Antonio González García-Conde, highlights in the presentation of the catalog: “The sector has evolved notably in recent years, and 2024 will be a decisive year. With the newly published National Integrated Energy and Climate Plan (PNIEC), the energy transition is accelerating, and hydrogen is one of the key pillars to achieving the ambitious decarbonization and energy security goals.”

The production of hydrogen from water electrolysis is one of the fields where Spain is making significant advances.

Among the highlighted technologies is alkaline electrolysis, promoted by companies like ARIEMA Energía y Medioambiente, which has developed modular electrolyzers capable of generating up to 10 MW of green hydrogen from renewable energies.

These systems are designed to be highly scalable and are presented as ideal solutions for large industrial projects as well as refueling stations.

Additionally, new complementary technologies are emerging that improve the efficiency of electrolysis processes.

The Iberian Center for Energy Storage Research (CIIAE) is leading projects based on photoelectrocatalysis, which combines solar energy and electrochemical processes to generate hydrogen more efficiently.

This emerging technology uses advanced catalysts to optimize the process of converting solar energy into this renewable gas, which could significantly reduce costs and improve the feasibility of large-scale production.

Another relevant innovation in production is the use of biomass reformers.

Companies like AIMPLAS are researching hydrogen production through the valorization of plastic waste and biomass. This approach also contributes to waste management, reinforcing its potential in a circular economy.

Advances in Storage: Security and Sustainability

Hydrogen storage, a key challenge for its integration into the energy grid, has also seen significant innovations. The ability to store hydrogen safely and efficiently is crucial to ensure a continuous supply of renewable energy.

One of the main solutions being developed in Spain is the use of advanced storage materials, such as MOFs (Metal-Organic Frameworks) and carbon materials, which allow hydrogen to be stored in solid form at low pressures.

These materials offer an alternative to traditional high-pressure tanks, providing higher storage density and improving safety.

LOMARTOV SL, for example, is leading research in this field, developing porous materials that maximize hydrogen storage capacity without the need for complex infrastructures.

These innovations will allow for greater adoption of renewable gas in industrial applications and mobility, reducing costs and risks associated with transportation and storage.

Hydrogen in Energy Generation and Storage

Green hydrogen is not only used as fuel but is also playing a crucial role in stabilizing energy grids through its integration into microgrids and hybrid systems.

Companies like AICIA are working on microgrid integration projects that combine renewable energy sources (solar and wind) with hydrogen storage and batteries, allowing efficient management of generated energy and its later use during peak demand times.

The integration of hydrogen into hybrid electrical grids is another promising advancement. These grids combine technologies like high-temperature fuel cells (SOFC) with solar and wind energy systems, providing a clean and reliable energy source.

CIRCE and other technological centers have developed solutions that enable hydrogen injection into the electrical grid, contributing to grid stabilization and optimizing the use of renewable energies.

New Developments in Industrial Applications and Mobility

Hydrogen is also revolutionizing sectors such as industry and mobility. In the industrial sector, it is used as a raw material for processes that traditionally depend on fossil fuels.

AIJU, for example, is working on integrating fuel cells and electrolyzers into industrial applications, aiming to decarbonize heat and electricity production in key sectors.

Regarding mobility, hydrogen is positioning itself as a key fuel for heavy vehicles, rail transport, and even aviation.

AJUSA, with its PEM fuel cell technology, is developing modules that allow applications in both light and heavy transport.

This technology stands out for its ability to generate energy cleanly, with water as the only byproduct, making it an ideal alternative to fossil fuels in transportation.

Collaboration and Drive Toward the Future

Antonio González García-Conde, president of PTe H2, emphasized that 2024 will be a decisive year for the hydrogen sector in Spain, and that the Catalog of Technological Capabilities is proof of the progress made thanks to collaboration between companies, research centers, and public entities.

Participation in international initiatives, such as the Clean Hydrogen Mission and the Enagás Call for Interest, highlights the importance of coordination to maximize hydrogen’s impact in key sectors.

With the support of the State Research Agency and new funding opportunities under the framework of the National Integrated Energy and Climate Plan (PNIEC), Spain is in an excellent position to continue leading the development of renewable hydrogen technologies.