This sequence of renewable gases stands as a clear sustainable option in the broader effort to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The push to cut Spain’s reliance on foreign energy grew stronger amid the Ukraine war, which underscored the need for secure energy supplies. The European Union’s plan, REPowerEU, aimed to lessen dependence on Russian fossil fuels and address climate challenges, guiding policy across Brussels and member states.
These topics and more were on the agenda at a Madrid-anchored gathering organized by a prominent Spanish newspaper under the title Spain’s great potential in the renewable gas revolution. Experts from the Prensa Ibérica group in Madrid shared insights on the future of renewable gases and their role in the energy mix.
Alfredo Ingelmo, Nedgia Gas Advocacy and Communications Manager, explained that renewable gases encompass several varieties. One notable example is biomethane or biogas, injected into the gas network produced from organic waste, livestock, wastewater, and the organic fractions of landfills. He described this as a circular economy process with strong positive implications. Oscar Barrero, Energy Partner at PwC, noted the significant potential and future opportunities renewable gases offer for the circular economy and waste management.
He cautioned that Spain remains in a transitional phase, currently prioritizing energy security amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. On the optimistic side, Fernando Arlandis-Perez, CEO for Decarbonization and Energy Transition in the Community of Madrid, highlighted a mature distribution and transportation framework, though further development remains likely.
Miracles Avedillo, Assistant Director for Natural Gas at the National Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC), recalled how heating, hot water, and cooking gas can incorporate renewable components alongside non-renewable ones. He pointed to European peers where a substantial share of gas in the grid already comes from renewable sources, achieving lower carbon footprints and minimized CO2 differentials.
biomethane
Biomethane’s prominence in Europe’s plan hinges on boosting the industry’s scale. PwC’s Energy Partner highlighted that countries like Denmark and France have reached and surpassed the 10% threshold, moving toward 20%. Renewable gas is central to Spain’s energy strategy rather than a marginal option, according to Alfredo Ingelmo.
Experts described how companies pursue reliable energy to stay competitive in energy-intensive sectors. Families seek dependable energy that is affordable while contributing to climate goals. Biomethane is framed as a solution that touches three aims: reducing emissions, maintaining production stability, and leveraging existing infrastructure without forcing homes to change equipment.
Miracles Avedillo emphasized that biogas represents a win-win-win scenario for distributors re-evaluating infrastructure, farmers managing waste, and autonomous communities seeking practical disposal solutions. Fernando Arlandis added that renewable gases must be profitable and reliable, noting the challenge of how to balance supply during periods when sun and wind are scarce. He underscored that biofuels and biomethane enable energy availability during these gaps and highlighted the agriculture sector’s role in managing waste and energy demand within Spain’s existing framework.
Arrangement
Ingelmo highlighted the positive externalities of renewable gases, emphasizing emissions reductions and progress toward climate targets. He argued that the energy transition should be pursued with clear commitments and without unrealistic expectations, noting that some investments require stable political support. Despite challenges, there is confidence that positive changes are underway and more developments are anticipated in biogas and biomethane, including advancements in health-related applications.
Each country has its own regulatory framework for gas, and Spain’s system remains distinct yet robust. The emphasis is on aligning gas regulation with biogas integration, pursuing practical short-term solutions, and gradually expanding capacity to install and popularize renewable gas plants. The sense is that gas will continue to have a role for the foreseeable future, provided the necessary infrastructure and regulatory support remain in place.
Ingelmo expressed a forward-looking view, suggesting that over the next two decades some gas infrastructure could evolve or be repurposed. The goal is to maximize existing assets while expanding opportunities for renewable gas, keeping costs in check and maintaining reliability.
difficulties
Gas Advocacy and Communications Manager at Nedgia noted latent demand for green energy within the market. The key question is how to turn that demand into a practical, scalable reality. France serves as a notable example with government incentives linking production plants to distribution networks, illustrating how a stable framework can drive civilian uptake. While regulations differ by country, the underlying lesson is that a stable policy environment helps renewable gas initiatives succeed.
The Community of Madrid’s Decarbonization and Energy Transition leader pointed to a central hurdle: belief. Some institutions still do not fully recognize gas as a necessary part of the energy mix. He warned that ongoing support and clear objectives are needed to overcome administrative and financial barriers, while also recognizing the cultural shift required by a broad energy transition. Engagement from consumers is essential to ensure a smooth path forward.
Avedillo stressed that this sector offers a genuine circular economy opportunity. He urged companies to invest and stakeholders to mobilize resources to advance the renewable gas agenda. Leadership at the national and regional levels remains crucial to sustaining momentum and attracting capital for research, development, and deployment.
energy transition
Experts agreed that the energy transition should be balanced and fair, not abrupt. The Madrid region’s general manager for Decarbonization and Energy Transition advocated for a path that avoids forcing households to replace heating systems immediately, recognizing that many homes rely on long-standing technology. The emphasis was on keeping consumer options open and ensuring affordability while expanding the mix to include renewable gases where appropriate.
Consumers should remain at the center of the transition, with choices that fit their needs. The idea is to avoid demonizing any energy source or infrastructure while promoting decarbonization and responsible energy use. Consumer engagement in energy decisions was highlighted as a key driver of lasting change.
Milagros Avedillo framed the journey as a gradual, well-planned process, prioritizing reliable investment and thoughtful technology adoption. She urged steady progress and a calm approach to ensure that energy decisions are equitable and sustainable. Barrero reinforced Spain’s leadership in renewables within biomethane and other resources, stressing that the country still has substantial work ahead to unlock full potential and sustain momentum.