Green molecules key to EU decarbonization, Spain poised to lead

A new report from Moeve and PwC argues that green molecules could reduce EU energy dependence by 50% by 2040 and represent a third of the bloc's energy mix by 2050. These non-fossil fuels, including hydrogen, biofuels, and biogas, are seen as essential for decarbonizing hard-to-electrify sectors like heavy industry, aviation, and maritime transport.

What are green molecules?

Green molecules are synthetic fuels produced from renewable energy, water, and biomass. They offer a direct substitute for fossil fuels in sectors where electrification is difficult. Kitti Nyitrai, head of the European Commission's decarbonization unit, noted: "Electrification will be a fundamental path to decarbonization, but it will not take us all the way. We also need molecules." Source: El Confidencial

Economic and geopolitical impact

According to the study, green molecules could cut EU CO2 emissions by 22% by 2050 and create 181,000 direct and indirect jobs in Spain by 2040. Maarten Wetselaar, CEO of Moeve, stressed the geopolitical dimension: "That third of our energy would be produced here." Source: El Confidencial The report also highlights a potential reduction of up to 50% in Europe's external energy dependency. Source: Infobae

Spain's opportunity

Industry leaders at a Madrid event presented by Enerclub emphasized Spain's competitive edge. Carlos Barrasa of Moeve called green molecules "the great opportunity to reindustrialize Spain" and turn it into "the energy engine of Europe." Source: Infobae Enagás and bp executives pointed to Spain's existing infrastructure and project pipeline as key advantages.