About six weeks earlier, Russia threatened to cut oil and gas deliveries to European nations, a move that would have kept prices in check. If such threats were fulfilled, could the energy supply be secured?
Since the Ukraine conflict began, Hafesa Group has diversified its supply routes and built alliances with both national and European suppliers. This has positioned the group well to provide hydrocarbons to its customers. A robust industrial and commercial infrastructure enables readiness, especially in times of uncertainty.
The hydrocarbon market remains highly dynamic, and Hafesa adapts quickly to evolving realities and the global energy landscape. In the long term, Europe may gain by reducing dependence on third parties and rethinking its energy model.
We have a strong industrial and commercial infrastructure that allows us to be prepared, especially in uncertain times
Spain holds oil reserves sufficient for a minimum three months. Is this cushion adequate to withstand potential supply threats?
The State Institution of Strategic Reserves, CORES, operates under the Ministry of Ecological Transition and helps guarantee hydrocarbon supply security in Spain. CORES coordinates and supervises all participants to keep the system functioning smoothly. One facility in Gijón has been dedicated to these strategic reserves. For petroleum products, the obligation to maintain stock for 92 days provides substantial time to respond as a crisis unfolds.
European Union nations are already rethinking energy models to secure autonomy and identify new partners and sources of supply. This mindset shift will make Europe less vulnerable to global energy crises, and prior experience will allow us to work differently on energy matters.
European Union countries are currently working to rethink their energy models and achieve autonomy
How many storage facilities does Hafesa Group own, and are there expansion plans?
Hafesa Group operates four storage facilities under its DBA designation, located in Bilbao, Motril, Gijón, and Ocaña. A new facility at Ferrol Outer Port is planned to add 85,000 m3 of capacity, bringing the global storage capacity for petrol, diesel, and fuel to approximately 500,000 m3 when the project is complete. The strategic network spans across the peninsula to efficiently reach a large portion of the population, reinforcing the commitment to storage facility investments that guarantee reliable supply to customers while maintaining operational flexibility in response to changing demand.
Hydrocarbon prices continue to rise, and questions have been raised about the government reducing or removing the 20 cents per liter subsidy on automotive fuels. In Hafesa Group’s view, oil companies face a challenging environment as macroeconomic factors, inflation, and recent OPEC production cuts influence prices. Operators like Hafesa are navigating uncertainty in a shifting landscape, with the Ukraine conflict shaping the crisis’s outcome. The focus remains on stability for clients amid ongoing disruptions.
Despite the seriousness of current events, Hafesa Group remains committed to its network-based business model. This model is designed to minimize client impact during periods of instability by relying on self-contained facilities and a distributed supply chain. The approach emphasizes resilience and continuity for customers in a volatile market.
In the face of successive crises, we are committed to our own network-based business model.
What about the energy self-consumption project at the Ocaña hydrocarbon storage and distribution facility, and how does this fit into sustainable sector development?
The self-consumption project at the Ocaña plant is underway, alongside the launch of a new photovoltaic solar power initiative for application at Hafesa’s service stations. Environmental impact is continually reduced through reuse, recycling, and careful evaluation of residue management across activities.
What are the principal challenges ahead for Hafesa Group in the coming years?
First, expanding national presence through new storage facilities will broaden regional penetration and improve service reach. Second, adding more service stations to the network remains a priority, as Hafesa is recognized for quality service at strategically important points along its supply chain. This model supports autonomy and the best possible service for customers. Internationally, the major objective is to replicate the success of this model in other markets.
How is the future of hydrocarbons shaped by the rise of electric vehicles like diesel and gasoline alternatives?
Hydrocarbons are expected to remain essential for decades, maintaining the transport sector’s sustainability in Spain and supporting the country’s competitiveness and growth in industry, trade, and tourism. Transporting people and goods will not be feasible in the short to medium term without liquid fuels. Hafesa Group, however, aims for maximum efficiency, driving energy conservation through innovation in processes, products, and services. As the energy transition continues, the goal is to balance efficiency with environmental responsibility and sustainable development.