The regional government has formally communicated its support to the European Commission for the development of new strategic green hydrogen projects in the Escombreras Valley, in Cartagena, with the aim of consolidating the Region of Murcia as a key reference in energy transition and the development of sustainable technologies in southern Europe.
This was conveyed by the regional government in the consultation process opened by the European Commission to select hydrogen infrastructure and electrolyzer projects that will receive European funding and help advance decarbonization.
The Minister of Environment, Universities, Research, and Mar Menor, Juan María Vázquez, highlighted that «the promotion of renewable hydrogen is a strategic priority for the regional government,» as it «strengthens our competitiveness and energy security, but also generates quality employment and strengthens our position as an energy hub in southern Europe.»
To achieve this goal, Vázquez pointed out that «European funding is crucial to support the development of necessary infrastructure that promotes growth, employment, and transition to clean energy,» as it has been for green hydrogen projects like Repsol’s ‘Cartagena Large Electrolyzer’ and Cobra Solutions’ ‘Green Cobra’ project.
Both have been recognized as Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEI) and have received grants of 155 and 150 million euros, respectively, from European funds.
Repsol’s project, with a 100 MW electrolysis capacity, will annually produce 14,500 tons of green hydrogen, mainly for self-consumption in its Cartagena refinery. This initiative will significantly contribute to reducing CO2 emissions in the petrochemical industry.
On the other hand, Cobra Solutions’ ‘Green Cobra’ project involves the construction of an electrolyzer in Cartagena, which will generate over 500 direct jobs and prevent the emission of approximately one million tons of CO2 over its lifespan.
MODERNIZATION AND EXPANSION OF THE ELECTRIC GRID
Minister Vázquez also emphasized the need to improve the regional electrical infrastructure. He noted that «for these projects to reach their full potential, it is essential for the Spanish government to invest in the modernization and expansion of the electrical grid in the Region of Murcia. Only then can we ensure the success of these initiatives and meet the decarbonization goals set by the European Union.»
«The Region of Murcia has enormous potential in renewable energies, as seen in these projects, but urgently requires state investments in the electrical grid for these projects to materialize,» he added.
Juan María Vázquez stated that «we have been demanding a realistic plan that matches the ambition of our industrial sector for years,» and urged the Ministry to «approve without further delay the future Energy Planning and address the real needs of the Region’s industrial sector, as conveyed on numerous occasions by the Autonomous Community.»
«It is not a whim, but a technical necessity aligned with the current situation that will allow us to tackle decarbonization and cater to the industry of the future,» the Minister emphasized.
