The CEO of Repsol, Josu Jon Imaz, participated in the Higher Course on Talent and Political Leadership at the Goethe Institute in Madrid, where he gave a presentation entitled “Energy: an essential good and driving force of life”, focused on the challenges of the energy transition in Europe. In his speech, Imaz presented a pragmatic vision of the progress towards decarbonization and the challenges that this poses, especially in terms of competitiveness and industrial sustainability.
The energy transition in perspective
During his speech, Imaz recognized that Europe has assumed global leadership in the fight against climate change, establishing ambitious goals for decarbonization. However, he warned that it is necessary to consider the secondary effects of this transition, especially in an international context where other regions are not advancing at the same pace. «“We are decarbonizing, but not the world,” he noted, referring to the phenomenon known as “exporting emissions,” which occurs when industrial production moves to countries with less strict regulations.
According to the CEO, Europe needs to find a balance between reducing emissions and maintaining its industrial competitiveness. To illustrate this, he cited figures that reflect the rising cost of energy in the region: “The price of natural gas is five times higher than in the United States, and that of electricity is 2.6 times higher.” This, according to Imaz, makes reindustrialization difficult and increases pressure on key sectors.
He made reference to the Draghi report and the key points that highlight European competitiveness. Among them, the importance of reducing dependence on critical raw materials, adopting agile governance and guaranteeing necessary investments to maintain the balance between energy transition and competitiveness. It is worth remembering that according to the report, between 750 and 800 billion euros of annual investment will be required to reduce the gap with respect to the United States and China, and achieve a sustainable transition.
A look towards the future
Imaz insisted that Europe must be able to lead on climate change without compromising its economic and social position. “Without a strong industry, we will not have the necessary muscle to ensure sufficient, affordable and decarbonized energy,” he assured. Likewise, he emphasized that progress must be based on technological innovation and global cooperation, with a long-term vision that includes all actors.
In general terms, he suggested that the energy transition should be supported by a wide range of technological solutions, and not focus exclusively on electrification. “Decarbonized mobility needs molecules and electrons,” he commented, defending the development of technologies such as renewable fuels, green hydrogen and carbon capture.
To conclude, the manager advocated for a regulatory framework that allows progress in a sustainable and balanced manner. “We need policies that combine sustainability, efficiency and security of supply,” he said, adding that international collaboration will be crucial to address a challenge that is global in nature.