Hydrogen is the simplest and lightest chemical element, composed of just one proton and one electron. It naturally stabilizes as a diatomic molecule and, under standard conditions, is a tasteless, colorless, and odorless gas. Hydrogen represents approximately 75% of the universe’s mass. On Earth, however, it does not occur freely in nature but is combined with other elements, such as oxygen in water and carbon in organic compounds.

As a result, hydrogen must be produced artificially, making it an energy carrier rather than a primary energy source. In other words, energy is required to produce hydrogen, and once generated, it can store that energy and release it when needed.

Green hydrogen—also known as renewable hydrogen—is produced using renewable electricity through water electrolysis. It is particularly relevant because it generates no CO₂ emissions during production. The term also applies to hydrogen obtained through sustainable processes such as biogas reforming, biochemical biomass conversion, photoelectrocatalysis, or photothermal catalysis.

Today, as we face the dual challenge of reducing dependence on fossil fuels and effectively addressing climate change, the need for a reliable, affordable, and clean future energy system has become undeniable. In this context, green hydrogen stands out as a critical energy carrier. It is not only a key industrial input but also a zero-carbon energy vector capable of enabling cost-effective renewable energy storage and transport. Its versatility supports decarbonization across multiple sectors, including industry, transportation, and construction.

CT is proud to be at the forefront of driving a greener and more sustainable future through the comprehensive development of green hydrogen projects. “Our efforts focus on innovating and scaling solutions that not only address today’s energy needs but also help shape the energy landscape of tomorrow,” says Antonio Sánchez Goya, Project Manager at CT.

Success cases

The success of the green hydrogen projects developed by CT Ingenieros is built around six key pillars.

First, the hydrogen plant in Puertollano—the largest in Europe—involved a 15-month multidisciplinary collaboration focused on detailed engineering, on-site supervision, and the management of regulatory approvals for the plant’s various systems.

Second, pilot plants developed in collaboration with the National Hydrogen Center (CNH2) advanced innovation in hydrogen integration with natural gas. Through closed-loop systems designed to optimize and evaluate H₂ blending, these initiatives represent a critical step toward the commercial viability of hydrogen as part of mixed-energy solutions.

CT has also contributed to both global and national market studies, delivering detailed analyses of green hydrogen dynamics, identifying emerging technologies, assessing cost structures, and providing advisory support for large-scale plant construction projects.

In addition, the company has developed and simulated advanced cooling systems, conducting comprehensive comparative studies for 1 GW-scale plants. These analyses evaluated plant footprint, water and electricity consumption, and associated costs, with the objective of optimizing facility design and operational performance.

Finally, CT provides technical support for electrolyzer scaling—from process design assistance and validation to supporting the creation of dedicated business units for electrolyzer assembly. “Our technical expertise has been instrumental in scaling green hydrogen production from laboratory environments to full industrial implementation,” adds Antonio Sánchez Goya.

Future and commitment

At CT, we are committed to developing technologies that not only transform our clients’ production processes but also generate a lasting and positive societal impact. This commitment explains our long-standing dedication to advancing green hydrogen initiatives and exploring new pathways through R&D&I.

These efforts include the development of a containerized, transportable system designed to reform biogas generated through the anaerobic digestion of organic waste. The system adapts to mobility requirements and intermittent operating periods without increasing industrial footprint.

Additionally, CT is working on the design of specialized equipment for hydrogen storage as an aviation fuel and conducting advanced simulations to evaluate the flight capacity of hydrogen-powered aircraft.

Progress and outlook

At CT, green hydrogen is viewed as a key component within the broader portfolio of low-carbon technologies capable of decarbonizing today’s energy system. However, further research and innovation are still required to unlock its full potential.

“For years, hydrogen has been promoted as the fuel of the future, and over the next decade we expect technological advancements to make its use economically viable at scale. At CT, we will continue investing in projects related to this energy vector—projects that enhance our clients’ production processes and, as a result, contribute positively to society as a whole,” concludes Antonio Sánchez Goya.