Decarbonization: Spain targets a 32% cut in emissions

The first PNIEC proposed a 23% cut in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 relative to 1990. The 2023 update raises that ambition by a further nine points, to 32%, aligning with the commitments of the European Green Deal.

This reduction will be achieved through a combination of measures: greater renewable penetration, an improvement in energy efficiency to 43%, electrification of the economy to 35%, and the rollout of new technologies such as green hydrogen.

One of the most significant benefits is the improvement in air quality. The decrease in emissions of atmospheric pollutants such as particulates and nitrogen oxides will cut premature deaths associated with air pollution by roughly half relative to 2019.

Spain's energy dependence will fall from 73% in 2019 to 50% in 2030, with savings of €86.75 billion in fossil fuel imports over the whole period. This strengthens the country's strategic autonomy.

The plan incorporates cross-cutting measures that create synergies with the National Plan for Adaptation to Climate Change, the Strategic Plan for Natural Heritage and Biodiversity, and hydrological planning, forming a comprehensive decarbonization framework.