Spain

Additional Transport Policies and Legal Framework

Spain aims to accelerate decarbonization in the transport sector with the Climate Change and Energy Transition Law that came into effect in 2021. Under this framework, zero-emission vehicle sales are expected to become mandatory by 2040.

Additionally, preparing sustainable mobility plans and establishing Low Emission Zones (LEZ) has become a legal requirement for settlements with populations over 50,000. This policy framework aims to reduce carbon emissions in cities and promote sustainable transport solutions.

Carbon-Free Roadmap in Railways and Logistics

Spain, which has one of Europe's most extensive high-speed railway networks, aims to reduce road dependency through the development of intercity high-speed train lines.

Increasing the use of railways in freight transport is also planned. These investments stand out as strategic infrastructure steps aimed at reducing carbon emissions in both passenger and freight transport.

E-Methanol in Maritime Transport

Spain is making significant investments in alternative fuel solutions for maritime transport. Under the partnership between Forestal de Atlántico in Galicia and BASF, daily production of 156 tons of e-methanol is targeted by 2027.

This fuel, produced using green hydrogen, is expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions in maritime transport. Additionally, Maersk plans to produce approximately 2 million tons of e-methanol annually at Spanish facilities to meet fuel needs in its fleet by 2030. The green methanol plant with 100,000 tons/year capacity planned for Gijón Port in the Asturias region is also supported under the European Green Deal.

Zero Emission Approaches in Road and Urban Transport

Electric and hydrogen-powered public transport solutions are rapidly expanding in Spain's major cities. Hydrogen buses have been put into service in Barcelona, while electric bus fleets are being expanded in Madrid. Madrid achieved its "zero diesel" fleet target by renewing diesel buses as of 2022.

Low Emission Zones (LEZ) that restrict access for fossil fuel vehicles are being implemented in city centers. Thanks to applications like Madrid Central and its expanded version Madrid 360, fossil fuel vehicle traffic in city centers has been significantly reduced.

Sustainable mobility solutions are also becoming widespread in urban transport. Electric scooter and bicycle sharing systems are rapidly increasing, and pedestrian areas and bicycle paths are being expanded to reduce private vehicle use for short-distance trips.

Investments in public transport infrastructure include the development of bus lanes, transfer centers, and integrated transport systems. These investments aim to increase the share of public transport in urban mobility and reduce carbon emissions.