Wedoany.com Report on Mar 6th, Spanish energy company Moeve recently approved the final investment decision to commence construction of the Green Hydrogen Valley in Andalusia. The first phase of this project, named Onuba, is planned to be the largest green hydrogen production facility in Southern Europe, with an initial capacity of 300 megawatts and provisions for an additional 100-megawatt expansion. Construction is expected to begin within weeks, with further expansion dependent on grid capacity and board approval.
Maarten Wetselaar, CEO of Moeve, stated: "Launching the Onuba green hydrogen plant is a crucial part of Moeve's transformation strategy. This project will establish an advanced green molecule hub in Spain, providing renewable fuels for hard-to-abate sectors while enhancing Europe's energy and industrial resilience. By collaborating with partners in the renewable energy field, we are building an ecosystem for scalable development."
The total investment for the Onuba project exceeds $1.2 billion, covering infrastructure and the development of supporting photovoltaic power stations. Moeve holds a 51% stake in the project and is participating jointly with global clean energy companies Masdar and Enalter, the latter being majority-controlled by Enagás Renovable, a company focused on renewable gases.
Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar, said: "As pioneers in the green hydrogen sector, we have always recognized its potential for decarbonizing heavy industry. Led by Moeve, this collaboration embodies our strategy of advancing commercially viable green hydrogen projects in regions with clear market demand. We are also pleased to support Spain's clean energy development goals."
The plan has been designated as a Project of Common European Interest by the European Commission and has received nearly $354 million in funding from the Spanish government through the Hydrogen Valley program. This funding originates from the EU's NextGenerationEU plan, aimed at supporting the development of 400 megawatts of capacity for the Andalusian Green Hydrogen Valley.
Antón Martínez, CEO of Enagás Renovable, stated: "The Onuba project marks a significant step in Spain's green hydrogen development. At Enagás Renovable, we continue to support projects that promote energy independence, create new industrial opportunities, and generate jobs. The Andalusian Green Hydrogen Valley demonstrates how collaboration between businesses and institutions can accelerate the decarbonization process and deliver long-term economic and social benefits."
At the 300-megawatt capacity, Onuba is expected to produce approximately 45,000 tons of green hydrogen annually, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by about 250,000 tons. The produced green hydrogen will be used for aviation, land transport, and marine fuel, and will provide decarbonized energy for the chemical and fertilizer industries.
