Natural Power, a prominent renewable energy consultancy and service provider, has been chosen to undertake crucial environmental impact assessments for the BarMar project, a key component of the ambitious H2med initiative. This project aims to link the hydrogen networks from the Iberian Peninsula to North-West Europe, facilitating a secure and sustainable energy transition across the continent.
Operating under the guidance of Tecnoambiente, the primary contractor for the environmental and social analysis, Natural Power’s involvement highlights its expertise and leadership in environmental consultancy within the renewable energy sector. The BarMar project will explore potential pathways for an offshore pipeline stretching from Barcelona to Marseille, navigating the Mediterranean Sea’s complex environmental and social landscape. This in-depth analysis is set to determine the most viable corridor route, balancing technical feasibility with environmental, economic, and societal considerations, showcasing the three Transmission System Operators’ (TSOs) dedication to sustainable development.
Pierre Warlop, Country Director for France at Natural Power, expressed enthusiasm about contributing to this groundbreaking project. With a target to supply Europe with cost-effective green hydrogen by 2030, the BarMar initiative relies on Natural Power’s wealth of experience in conducting environmental studies and the specialized knowledge of its offshore team, which includes experts in marine ecology, ornithology, marine mammals, and fisheries liaison.
Launched in October 2022 by the governmental heads of Spain, France, and Portugal, and endorsed by Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, at the Euromed Summit in December 2022, the €2.5 billion H2med project represents a significant step towards integrating green hydrogen into Europe’s energy mix. With the recent addition of Germany’s OGE to the collaborative efforts of Enagás (Spain), GRTgaz and Teréga (France), and REN (Portugal), H2med is poised to play a pivotal role in the continent’s journey towards a greener future.
