COMECOCO2. Efficient production of green fuel for marine transportation through co-electrolysis of CO2 captured in wastewater treatment plants

The COMECOCO2 project aims to demonstrate an efficient system for producing renewable methanol using technology entirely developed in Spain. By integrating advanced materials and manufacturing processes, the project will significantly improve efficiency while reducing the use of critical materials. This innovative Power-to-Liquid (P2L) solution will convert captured CO₂ from wastewater treatment plants, reclaimed water, and renewable electricity into green methanol. The project directly addresses the growing demand for low-carbon fuels, particularly in maritime transport, and serves as a precursor for sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). With global regulations pushing for cleaner fuels, green methanol is emerging as a key solution due to its liquid state at ambient temperature, making it easier and cheaper to store and transport than gaseous alternatives. Additionally, its low carbon footprint and compatibility with dual-fuel engines and fuel cells position it as a leading candidate for accelerating the energy transition in transportation.

COMECOCO2 is expected to deliver high-value components, including co-SOEC stacks, catalytic methanol synthesis reactors, and a unique P2L plant prototype. The project brings together a multidisciplinary consortium, including six research centers (IREC, LUREDERRA, CSIC-INMA, EURECAT, UPC, and CENER), alongside six industrial partners (MMM, ACCIONA, AMES, NANO4E, AESA, and GREENG). The project also features an advisory board with key industry players such as CEPSA, SyMNAVAL, and the Port Authority of Barcelona. By the end of the project, optimized manufacturing processes will be in place, enabling scalable and cost-effective renewable fuel production. Additionally, the modular and replicable business model will allow methanol production plants (500-5000 kg MeOH/day) to be deployed near CO₂ capture sites, fostering a just and inclusive energy transition. With a strong focus on environmental impact, COMECOCO2 will cut critical material use by up to 87% and ensure climate neutrality by utilizing CO₂ captured from biological sources. The project’s open-access data policy will further encourage scientific collaboration and industrial adoption, strengthening Spain’s leadership in the renewable fuel economy.

CENER’s role in the COMECOCO2 project focuses on the optimization and design of the overall renewable methanol production system. To achieve this, CENER will conduct advanced simulations using finite element and volume techniques to enhance the design of interconnectors and fluidic components, ensuring efficient and stable performance. Additionally, CENER will work on the optimization of the plant balance, covering key subsystems such as the gas management unit, hot box, heat exchange, compression, and condensation, with the aim of improving the efficiency and durability of the system.

Another crucial aspect of CENER’s work will be the development of operational protocols to maximize efficiency and system lifespan, ensuring its industrial viability. Moreover, CENER will study the integration of the methanol production system into controlled environments, such as energy microgrids, to demonstrate its compatibility with existing infrastructure and its ability to operate with renewable energy sources. CENER’s contribution will be key to ensuring that the COMECOCO2 system is technologically viable, scalable, and sustainable, facilitating its implementation in the industry.