Q-Zero Alliance Launches with Over 40 Companies at Iberdrola Headquarters to Accelerate Decarbonization of Thermal Demand in Spain

Over 40 companies participated in the launch event of Q-Zero, the alliance aimed at decarbonizing thermal demand in Spain, which was held today at the headquarters of Iberdrola. The initiative, inclusive of all stakeholders, serves as a pivotal platform for accelerating decarbonization efforts, particularly in the industrial and building sectors, to combat climate change.

Facilitated and supported by the Centre for Innovation in Technology for Human Development of the Polytechnic University of Madrid, the partnership has successfully convened representatives from all sectors of the industrial economic chain.

Recognizing that the current rate of decarbonization in these sectors falls short of the necessary pace to meet climate change commitments and limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, the alliance aims to serve as a collaborative space. Here, entities can convene, discuss prevailing challenges, identify bottlenecks, and devise strategies and activities to expedite the electrification of heat across different sectors. This initiative aims to maintain competitiveness while capitalizing on the opportunities presented by the energy transition.

The electrification of heat presents unique challenges and opportunities across various industries. While numerous barriers are common, there are also distinct differences that must be addressed to accelerate the decarbonization process effectively.

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.

Participating companies and entities included 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 industry and building sectors. Despite challenges such as reliance on fossil fuels and energy costs, Spain possesses abundant renewable resources, presenting a significant opportunity to attract industries, generate employment, and add value while transitioning towards carbon-free energy.