Edison Next and the potential of Green Hydrogen in the decarbonization of industries

Hydrogen, the most abundant element in the universe, is set to play a fundamental role in the global energy transition. Although it is virtually non-existent in its pure form on Earth, it is widely present in combination with other elements, such as in water. Therefore, to use it, it must be produced from these sources. There are several ways to obtain hydrogen, but only one guarantees zero carbon emissions: the production of green hydrogen using water and renewable energy as raw materials. This type of hydrogen is not only completely clean, but also reaches combustion temperatures higher than those of natural gas, making it an ideal option for industrial processes that require high temperatures. At Edison Next, we are firmly committed to innovation and sustainability, and we believe that green hydrogen is one of the keys to decarbonizing Spanish industry. An inspiring example of its application is the H2 Factory™ project of the Iris Ceramica Group in Italy, which has become a model to follow throughout the Italian industrial sector. Developed in the ceramic district of Modena and Reggio Emilia, this project marks the first step towards the decarbonization of the ceramic industry through the use of green hydrogen. Today, green hydrogen production faces significant challenges due to the need for large amounts of renewable energy. According to the International Energy Agency, in 2022, less than 1% of hydrogen produced worldwide was low-emission. However, to meet global decarbonization goals, it is essential that we step up efforts to increase this production as soon as possible, with the aim of reaching 50 Megatonnes by 2030. At Edison Next, we understand that decarbonizing energy-intensive industries, such as ceramics, steel, and glass, requires a complete rethinking of production processes. It is not just about reducing emissions, but doing so while maintaining competitiveness and product quality. Our collaboration project with the Iris Ceramica Group has shown that, with innovation and a forward-looking vision, it is possible to overcome these challenges and lead the change towards more sustainable industrial production. The Iris Ceramica H2 Factory™ project represents a significant advance in the application of green hydrogen in industry. The plant, designed to operate with the highest standards of efficiency and sustainability, integrates a furnace capable of using a mixture of green hydrogen and natural gas, which allows for a significant reduction in carbon emissions during the production process. Furthermore, to ensure that the green hydrogen used is truly clean, the plant has two photovoltaic energy installations. These installations generate the renewable electricity needed to power the electrolysis process, a method that splits water into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity. Thanks to this approach, the hydrogen produced at the plant is completely free of carbon emissions, aligning with the company’s sustainability and decarbonization goals. At Edison Next, we are proud to collaborate on this project, which not only represents an important step for the decarbonization of the ceramic industry, but is also an example to follow for other industries in Spain and around the world.