Magnon Green Energy, the energy subsidiary of the Ence Group, is spearheading a pioneering project in Puertollano (Ciudad Real) to capture and valorise biogenic CO2, with the aim of transforming the site into a leading hub for the production of renewable fuels. This initiative will harness the full potential of Biollano, the renewable biomass generation plant inaugurated in 2020.

The Ence Group produces more than four million tonnes of biogenic CO2 annually, of which nearly 330,000 tonnes are generated at the Puertollano facilities. The valorisation of this gas enables its use in the production of renewable fuels, facilitating the transition from grey methanol (fossil-based) to green methanol (e-methanol). These renewable fuels contribute to decarbonising hard-to-electrify sectors such as aviation and maritime transport.

Just Transition

The Magnon Green Energy plant in Puertollano, which was visited today by the mayor of Puertollano, Miguel Ángel Ruiz, serves as an example of a Just Transition. Biollano, with a renewable biomass power generation capacity of 50 MW and an investment of €130 million, valorises more than 300,000 tonnes of locally sourced agroforestry waste, contributing to the circular economy through the responsible management of biomass. It also helps reduce the risk of forest fires and diffuse emissions caused by the uncontrolled burning of agricultural waste.

Methanol, key to decarbonisation

Methanol is a highly promising product in the decarbonisation process. It is used in the production of essential items such as acrylic plastics, adhesives, and paints, and in the pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries, among others. Furthermore, its liquid state at ambient temperature and pressure facilitates its transport and storage, and it already has an extensive global logistics network.

Currently, most methanol is produced from natural gas and coal, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. The Magnon Green Energy plant will support the production of green methanol (e-methanol), made from biogenic CO2, which can be directly used as maritime fuel or transformed into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), playing a key role in decarbonising these sectors.