He Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (Miteco) has already selected the projects that will boost the development of renewable hydrogen in the country. A total of 25 innovative projects, funded by NextGenEUwill advance in the research, development and implementation of pioneering technologies thanks to an investment of 44.2 million eurosTen autonomous communities will receive funding through the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan (PRTR), including Madrid, the Valencian Community, Andalusia, the Basque Country and Castilla La Mancha.
Hydrogen generation with offshore wind energy: the revolution of the sea
The use of wind energy offshore is one of the most promising advances in the generation of renewable hydrogen. This technology, which harnesses the power of the wind at sea to produce electricity, is presented as an ideal option for Generate hydrogen without carbon emissionsAmong the projects selected by Miteco are several that explore the integration of offshore wind turbines with electrolysers, which are devices that separate water into hydrogen and oxygen through an electrolysis process.
Offshore wind energy has a lot of potential due to its ability to continuously generate large amounts of electricityas well as its strategic location away from cities. In other words, it does not have a great environmental or visual impact and it maximises efficiency in hydrogen production. It is essential to combine these two elements to achieve a hydrogen economy that is truly sustainable and reduces dependence on fossil fuels.
Artificial photosynthesis: the power of nature in the hands of science
The artificial photosynthesis is another of the innovative approaches that has caught the attention of Miteco. Inspired by the natural process by which plants convert sunlight into energy, this technology seeks to replicate the biological mechanism for produce hydrogen from sunlight and water. It uses only solar energy to split water molecules, making it more direct and efficient than other ways of producing hydrogen.
This method has the potential to transform the way we generate energy, eliminating the need for complex electrical infrastructures and minimising the environmental impact. Although this is a technology in the very early stages of development, its inclusion in these research projects reflects Spain’s commitment to remain at the forefront of energy innovation.
Microwaves and bioprocesses: emerging technologies for hydrogen production
Apart from those mentioned above, other selected projects focus on technologies that generate hydrogen. through microwaves or bioprocessesMicrowave technology uses high-frequency energy to heat and break down materials such as water or certain organic waste, releasing hydrogen. This technique promises to be Faster and more efficient than conventional techniquesmaking it a viable option for large-scale hydrogen production.
On the other hand, bioprocesses generate hydrogen in a sustainable way. using microorganisms to break down organic matter, such as agricultural waste or slurryThis method not only reduces waste of resources, but also offers the possibility of converting waste into a valuable source of clean energy.
The 25 projects selected by Miteco not only represent technological progress, but also a social and economic commitment. The execution of these initiatives is linked to the Creation of more than 800 direct jobs and indirect throughout the country.
The business groups and consortia that benefit from the project, many of which are SMEs, will play an important role in creating a solid value chain for renewable hydrogen. In addition, public institutions such as the Canary Islands Institute of Technology will also actively participate in the research and development of these new technologies.