(Cáceres / Spain) – The construction of a plant to produce renewable hydrogen and methane with an output of 180 megawatts is planned in the Cáceres region in southwest Spain. A photovoltaic system with an output of 350 megawatts will provide the required electricity.
Lithium hydroxide in Caceres
The proceeds would in turn cover the energy needs of Extremadura New Energies (ENE). The Cáceres-based company is developing a plant to process lithium into lithium hydroxide (LiOH). The product is, among other things, an important component of batteries in electric cars, but can also be further processed into lubricating grease for vehicles, for example.
The construction of the systems is to be entrusted to a consortium of ENE and Enalter – a joint venture between Alter Enersun and Enagás Renovable, a subsidiary of the Spanish transmission system operator Enagás. According to their own statements, the companies have now concluded a corresponding cooperation agreement.
This also provides for the establishment of a joint company that will operate both the photovoltaic project and the renewable hydrogen and methane plants. It is estimated that 600 jobs will be created during the construction phase, and at least 50 permanent jobs will remain in the long term.
Construction starts in 2025
First, a feasibility study should be carried out including the determination of potential locations. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2025. The photovoltaic system and the electrolyzer are scheduled to begin operation from 2026.
Green methane is created in a chemical process from renewable hydrogen and CO2, which is captured during industrial processes. According to the company, the ENE project is “100 percent renewable” because the CO2 produced during lithium processing is recovered and used again for methanation.
Class schedule
Rendering of the planned lithium hydroxide factory in Spain. © Extremadura New Energies
