On April 25, Circle Energy attended the III Forum “Green Hydrogen. Renewable Gases for the Energy Transition” as observers. The event took place at Espacio Bertelsmann in Madrid and focused on the crucial role of renewable gases in the decarbonisation of the Spanish economy. The forum featured contributions from institutional representatives and leading companies in the energy sector.
Opening Keynote – Joan Batalla (SEDIGAS)
The forum began with a presentation by Joan Batalla, who emphasized the need to leverage all possible tools to achieve Spain’s decarbonisation goals by 2025. He highlighted the urgency of streamlining administrative procedures, simplifying regulatory frameworks, and equipping the sector with executive tools—such as a specialized biogas training program for professionals.
First Round Table – Renewable Gases as a Strategic Element
During this session, there was consensus that renewable gases are non-negotiable for meeting climate objectives. Participants called for realistic planning that appropriately sizes generation and storage capacity, enabling a transition from detailed engineering to actual execution based on real data.
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Naturgy reiterated its immediate commitment to biomethane, acknowledging that hydrogen remains in a less mature phase. They also raised concerns regarding waste treatment—currently, only 90% of input is utilized—and called for clear regulations and well-defined targets.
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Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) expressed concern over the lack of clarity surrounding hydrogen transport and the delays in hydrogen pipeline projects. They also pointed out the regulatory challenges impacting biogas development.
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Bioenergy highlighted the high production costs of hydrogen (approximately €6/kg) and the lengthy development timelines—six years, in their case, for a 35 MW plant. They called for greater demand and institutional support to improve the sector’s profitability.
Second Round Table – Key Drivers for Biogas and Biomethane Development
Speakers agreed on the need for a stable, clear, and agile regulatory framework that can effectively filter viable projects. The importance of injecting renewable gases into the national grid was emphasized to ensure their integration into the energy system. Technological solutions, such as biological upgrading—which enables the transformation of CO₂ into biomethane—were also well received.
Third Round Table – The Potential of Renewable Hydrogen
Discussions focused on the European Hydrogen Bank as a key instrument to reduce costs and accelerate industrialisation. Although challenges in transport and demand persist, some hydrogen plants are beginning to demonstrate economic viability. Companies like ALSA expressed interest in hydrogen applications within the mobility sector. The key message was clear: Spain cannot afford to miss the train of renewable hydrogen if it aims to position itself as a competitive player in the energy transition.
General Conclusion
The forum clearly demonstrated that although the technology and will are present, excessive regulation, high costs, and lack of infrastructure remain major barriers to sector development. At Circle Energy, we value these types of events as essential spaces for dialogue, collaboration, and the promotion of sustainable solutions that place Spain at the forefront of the energy transition.
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