“We fell in love with Abengoa and completed this integration.” These were the opening remarks delivered by the CEO of Coxabengoa. Enclosed in a conversation with Martí Saballs, the Prensa Ibérica executive responsible for economic information, the remarks occurred during the presentation of the economic supplement assets, organized by Editorial Prensa Ibérica and sponsored by Startkraft, ABANCA, Cajamar, Hidraqua, Power CO, Verevents, Prezero, and AEDAS Home. Riquelme noted that in the Cox scenario, the team is actively seeking to advance and identify the right opportunity. And that is how Abengoa was described.
Following the completion of its integration, Riquelme underscored that the development plan centers on continuing the trajectory set by Abengoa while prioritizing the reduction of risks and relying on political backing and the participation of economic actors, including financial institutions, to support the journey.
Create talent, jobs and wealth
In this dialogue, the emphasis was on expanding the company’s footprint across regions such as South America and the Middle East, while strengthening presence throughout Spain. The plan included constructing a new headquarters in Seville. Yet attention soon shifted to the Valencian Community, where the company is headquartered. The commitment is to nurture talent, generate employment, and reinvest profits into strengthening regional autonomy.
Moreover, Riquelme stressed that there should be no tradeoff between water and energy because both are essential, and Coxabengoa can supply both sectors. He highlighted that six of the world’s largest desalination facilities are already part of the portfolio, reinforcing the message that smart investments can cover multiple priorities without forcing a choice.
An opportunity
The leader also framed the Valencian Community as a place with substantial potential. In his view, the region remains privileged to contribute to Europe’s energy and technology frontier, particularly in areas such as batteries and green hydrogen. He described this as a responsibility for business groups to engage in hands-on development if they intend to confront challenges and seize opportunities.
Riquelme highlighted the abundant talent and remarkable companies in the Comunitat, calling them the region’s future. On investment, he pointed to positive signals indicating that the Valencian Community is welcoming to external investment under clear, equitable rules and with a focus on safeguarding strategic assets.