Q-Zero, an alliance dedicated to decarbonizing thermal demand in Spain, was launched today with the participation of over 40 companies. The event took place at the headquarters of Iberdrola, and the initiative aims to accelerate decarbonization efforts in the industrial and building sectors to combat climate change.
The partnership, facilitated and supported by the Centre for Innovation in Technology for Human Development of the Polytechnic University of Madrid, brings together representatives from all sectors of the industrial economic chain.
Recognizing that the current rate of decarbonization in these sectors is insufficient to meet climate change commitments and limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, the alliance aims to provide a collaborative space for entities to discuss challenges, identify bottlenecks, and devise strategies to expedite the electrification of heat in different sectors. This initiative aims to maintain competitiveness while capitalizing on the opportunities presented by the energy transition.
The electrification of heat presents both challenges and opportunities across various industries, and it is crucial to address these in order to effectively accelerate the decarbonization process.
During the launch event, Ignacio Galán, Chairman of Iberdrola, emphasized the urgency of transitioning to a more sustainable energy system. He highlighted the need to protect the environment, enhance energy autonomy, and reduce dependence on fossil fuel imports. Galán expressed gratitude to all participating companies for their commitment to building a more sustainable world and underscored Spain’s unique opportunity in this endeavor.
The participating companies and entities include Abadía Retuerta, Ábbatte, AFEC, AndreuWorld, Antolín, AQ Compute, Bayer, bp, Carbon2Nature, Castillo de Canena, Contazara, Crimidesa, Disalfarm, EIT Climate KIC, Ence – Energía y Celulosa, Estrella Levante (DAMM Group), Fagor Ederlan, Ferrovial, Gonvarri Solar Steel, Google, Heineken, Holcim, Iberdrola, Kyoto, Lactalis, Latem Aluminium, Losán, Masam, Merlin Properties, Molecor, NetZero Basque Industrial Super Cluster, Pepsico, Plastic Energy, Porcelanosa, Rebi, Sabic, SpainDC, T500 Puratos, and Tubos Reunidos Group.
The alliance aligns with the European Union’s objectives to combat climate change, including the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030. Thermal energy demand represents approximately 40% of final energy demand in Spain, evenly split between the industry and building sectors. Despite challenges such as reliance on fossil fuels and energy costs, Spain has abundant renewable resources, presenting a significant opportunity to attract industries, generate employment, and add value while transitioning towards carbon-free energy.
