Electricity only? Potential and limits to decarbonize primary energy supply in Europe highlighted by an eMethanol case study for Spain

Europe has always been an importer of primary energy, importing oil and gas. But could we be self-sufficient by using renewable energy sources (RES) only? Or do we need energy imports? If we do, what will be energy vectors of the future? As a one-stop technology provider, Air Liquide Engineering & Construction showcases an eMethanol study for Spain, highlighting important relationships between the dimensioning of RES, electrolysis plant, Hydrogen storage and methanol synthesis. We show how Hydrogen storage and our flexible CO2-to-Methanol synthesis contribute to an integrated eMethanol plant design, suited for standalone operation with RES.