The largest Hydrogen Valley in southern Europe secures FID
More than €1 billion will be invested in a large-scale green hydrogen production facility capable of generating around 45,000 tonnes of H₂ per year. These are some of the figures behind Onuba, the largest Hydrogen Valley in southern Europe, which has recently secured its final investment decision (FID). For now, the title is largely based on paper projections, supported by a planned electrolysis capacity of more than 300 MW.
A Project of Common European Interest
The project, designated a Project of Common Interest (PCI) by the European Commission, is led by the Spanish energy company Moeve (formerly Cepsa), whose Board of Directors has approved the FID to begin construction. The initiative will also include Masdar and Enalter (majority-owned by Enagás Renovable) as minority partners.
“The decision to launch the largest green hydrogen plant in southern Europe marks a decisive step in Moeve’s Positive Motion transformation strategy,” said Maarten Wetselaar, CEO of Moeve. “Onuba will become a world-class hub for green molecules in Spain, supplying renewable fuels to hard-to-abate sectors while strengthening Europe’s energy and industrial resilience. By collaborating with other leaders in the renewable energy sector, we are building an ecosystem designed to scale.”
How the Onuba Hydrogen Valley will operate
The Andalusian Hydrogen Valley will be developed in two phases. The first phase will involve the installation of a 300 MW electrolysis system, combined with a photovoltaic plant for self-consumption, producing around 45,000 tonnes of green hydrogen annually. A second phase could add a further 100 MW, although its implementation will depend on securing additional grid capacity and receiving approval from the board.
The hydrogen produced will be used to manufacture fuels for aviation, road and maritime transport, as well as to support the decarbonisation of the chemical and fertiliser industries.
“This partnership, under Moeve’s leadership, reflects our strategy to advance commercially viable green hydrogen projects in markets where demand is clear,” said Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar. “We are also pleased to strengthen our support for Spain’s clean energy ambitions.”
The project has received €304 million from the Spanish government as part of the country’s national recovery plan.