In Spain, we have an energy mix that includes both renewable and non-renewable energy sourcesNon-renewable sources have historically prevailed, but the country has taken important steps toward a more sustainable future through the promotion of clean energy.
Primary energy refers to energy in its natural state before being transformed or converted into another form of energy, while final energy is that which reaches the user for consumption. Spain, like other European countries, is committed to reducing its dependence on fossil fuels and adopting more environmentally friendly energy sources.
Energy sources in Spain
The country has an energy mix that includes renewable and non-renewable sources. Since the economic crisis in 2008, energy consumption in Spain has decreased, prompting the adoption of more sustainable policies.
In recent years, renewable energy sources have begun to play a more prominent role in the country's energy mix. The main sources include solar energy, wind energy and hydropower. These energies not only help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but also provide a more stable and sustainable source in the long term.
Petroleum products: their role in the energy mix
Petroleum products remain an important source of energy in Spain. These include products such as Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), gasoline, diesel and kerosene, which are used in key sectors such as transport, industry and domestic consumption.
LPG, composed primarily of butane and propane, is commonly used in homes for heating, cooking and hot water. Gasoline and diesel remain essential transport fuels, despite efforts to move towards more sustainable means. Other products are also refined, such as kerosene for aviation and fuel oil, used primarily in industrial applications.
Although Spain is progressively reducing its use of fossil fuels, they remain a significant part of its energy mix.
Non-renewable energy sources in Spain
Spain, despite its advances in renewable energies, continues to depend largely on non-renewable sourcesThese include oil, natural gas, coal and nuclear energy.
- Oil: The main source of energy for transport and the industrial sector.
- Natural gas: Mainly used for electricity generation.
- Coal: Although its use has decreased significantly, it remains a source of energy for thermal power plants.
- Nuclear energy: It provides approximately 20% of the country's electricity.
Spain's distribution network includes refineries and pipelines, such as the 4.020 kilometers of oil pipelines of the Hydrocarbon Logistics Company (CLH), which connects several refineries on the peninsula. In addition, Enagás manages infrastructures that enable the consumption of natural gas throughout the territory.
In terms of consumption, there has been a reduction in the use of gasoline and diesel in recent years, but kerosene has remained stable due to the growth of air tourism. Another important aspect is the use of Petroleum liquid gas in areas where natural gas is not available.
Renewable energies in Spain
42% of the electricity generated in Spain comes from renewable energy sources. The most important sources include wind, hydroelectric, solar and biomass energy.
Energía eólica
Spain is one of the world leaders in wind energy production, ranking only behind Germany in Europe. wind power It is responsible for approximately 20% of the country's electricity. This energy is generated by using wind turbines in parks distributed throughout the country, both on land and offshore.
Solar energy
La solar energy, both photovoltaic and thermal, has experienced exponential growth in recent years thanks to technological advances and regulatory changes. Photovoltaic solar energy converts solar radiation into electricity, while thermal solar energy uses the sun's heat to heat water and generate energy.
Spain has enormous advantages for the mass implementation of solar energy due to the abundance of sunshine hours in most of the territory, especially in the south of the country.
Hydraulic energy
Hydropower is the second most important renewable source in Spain. Through the installation of hydroelectric plants In large rivers, the flow of water is used to generate electricity. However, factors such as drought can affect the generation capacity, making this source a less reliable option in times of low rainfall.
La hydroelectric power, although its share in the energy mix has decreased in recent decades, remains essential, representing more than 18% of the total energy generated in Spain.
Other renewable energies
- Biomass: It is generated mainly from organic waste. Biomass has great growth potential and can help reduce CO2 emissions.
- Geothermal:Although its use is limited compared to other renewable sources, geothermal energy also presents opportunities in certain regions of Spain.
Electricity in Spain
The Spanish electricity sector has changed dramatically in the last two decades. Before, the main sources of electricity were thermal and nuclear, but now, Renewable energies play a central role.
Hydroelectric power plants are essential for the production of electricity in Spain, along with wind and solar power plants, which have grown rapidly over the past two decades. In addition, nuclear power plants continue to provide a significant amount of electricity.
Combined cycle power plants, which use natural gas to generate electricity, have been gaining importance in recent years due to their efficiency and ability to supplement supply when renewable energy sources are not sufficient.
As for distribution, the Spanish Electrical Network (REE) It is responsible for managing the transmission of electricity through a network that covers the entire country, helping to balance the production and consumption of electricity.
The future of the electricity system in Spain depends largely on digitalisation and the improvement of infrastructure to allow for greater integration of renewable energies.
The energy transition in Spain is rapidly advancing towards the adoption of renewable energy sources, although there is still work to be done to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
While non-renewable sources such as oil and natural gas still play an important role, the growth of clean energy sources such as wind and solar are gradually displacing fossil fuels. The Spanish energy sector is constantly evolving, and the long-term goal is to achieve a majority share of renewable energy in the energy mix.