Discover what Red Eléctrica is, what we do, and why we are the backbone of the electricity system in Spain and the ecological transition.
Carbon footprint
Carbon footprint
We are firmly committed to the ecological transition and are a key player in the fight against climate change. We aim to achieve Net-zero CO2 Emissions by 2050. That's why we constantly strive to reduce our carbon footprint as part of our sustainability policy.
Decarbonising the economy, our commitment
Red Eléctrica's activities enable the energy transition toward a zero-emission model, thanks to our contribution to the electrification of the economy and the integration of renewable energies. We reduce pollutant emissions associated with our processes through energy efficiency and sustainable mobility. Additionally, we offset our carbon footprint, extending our climate ambition to the supply chain in order to reduce its emissions.
As a Redeia subsidiary, Red Eléctrica contributes to the group's 2030 Sustainability Commitment, which prominently features the firm objective of decarbonising the economy. We aim to be a proactive agent in the energy transition towards a zero-emission model. Our 2023-2025 sustainability plan is an ambitious yet realistic roadmap, outlining concrete and measurable actions to minimise our environmental impact. These daily efforts allow us to progress in our 2030 Sustainability Commitment and adhere to our Environmental Policy.
Redeia's main climate challenges
2025
30% reduction in Scope 1 + 2 emissions compared to 2019.
100% de compensación de emisiones de alcance 1 desde 2024.
Suppliers representing 2/3 of supply chain emissions must have science-based targets (approved by SBTi).
2030
55% reduction in Scope 1 + 2 emissions compared to 2019.
28% reduction in Scope 3 emissions compared to 2019.
2050
90% reduction in Scope 1 + 2 emissions compared to 2019.
90% reduction in Scope 3 emissions compared to 2019.
Compensation of 10% of the remaining emissions (those that cannot be reduced), until net-zero is achieved.
Measures to combat GHG emissions
- Every year, we update our greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventory and report it transparently.
- We set short-, medium-, and long-term emission reduction targets aligned with international climate change goals and agreements.
- In our operations, the highest direct emissions are caused by sulphur hexafluoride (SF6), found in electricity transmission equipment. To address this, we have implemented a specific reduction plan.
- We also tackle emissions from other fluorinated gases, such as those released by HVAC systems in our premises, by reducing energy consumption and expanding the use of renewable energies while decreasing reliance on fossil fuels.
- We have sustainable mobility measures in place to reduce emissions from transportation.
- Furthermore, we lower GHG emissions associated with transmission grid losses by improving technical aspects.
- Red Eléctrica seeks to promote an increase in the share of renewable energies in the national energy mix, contributing to a continuous reduction in GHG emissions.
We collaborate with our suppliers by developing projects and various programmes to foster a culture that helps them reduce their GHG emissions. These initiatives also contribute to setting reduction targets aligned with the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi).
We prioritise more sustainable supplies (i.e., ‘green’ purchases) and promote changes that lead to an overall reduction in emissions.
Our offsetting approach promotes nature-based projects and solutions—such as habitat conservation and restoration—as well as other initiatives aligned with the ecological transition and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Let’s see some examples:
Controlling SF6 emissions: Improvement of leak control and registration procedures
Sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) is the primary direct emission from the group's activity, as it is produced by the equipment used in electricity transmission. Despite its high global warming potential, this gas offers significant technical advantages. It is a non-toxic gas that allows for a considerable reduction in the distances required between different elements of the facilities, which makes it possible for the overall size of the facilities to be reduced and, therefore, enable them to be better integrated into the landscape.
To reduce SF6 emissions and prevent leaks, we have implemented a control gear renewal plan as well as measures to limit the potential growth of the already present gas.
Our people: the first line of defence
Red Eléctrica is legally recognised for training personnel on how to handle SF6. Since 2013, 512 employees have been trained, of which 444 hold an official certification. Many of them are part of the ‘Intervention group,’ known as GIS: a self-developed methodology that has been key to achieving the lowest emission rate among European TSOs.
Our preventive maintenance efforts and our commitment to shortening detection and intervention times in the event of a leak, coupled with the development of more effective repair methodologies, ensure that current SF6 emissions remain low—with the average emission rate not exceeding 0.2%.
Strengthening leak prevention and control
- We have implemented additional preventive and control measures, such as designing covers for existing installations to protect materials from atmospheric agents. This way, potential leaks are avoided.
- We also include stringent requirements in procurement tenders to help minimise gas losses.
- Besides, we replace SF6 with nitrogen (N2) in equipment stored as back-up units.
Replacement of control gear
The most significant measure in quantitative terms is the gradual replacement of old equipment and equipment with very high leak rates. In 2022, we started a project to renovate the Litoral 400 kV sub-station. This was one of the facilities in which, due to its age and environmental conditions, most gas emissions have occurred in recent years.
In this context, we are involved with several technological monitoring groups as part of which we share experiences. One of these initiatives is the 'Mission Project,' where research institutions, equipment manufacturers, and other European TSOs conduct field tests to develop SF6 alternatives for control gear.
- We have launched two pilot projects for lower voltage levels and passive elements in sub-stations. Furthermore, we have also planned to use alternative gases in 400 kV gas-insulated lines and busbars in sub-stations.
- Additionally, we have two 66 kV cubicle-type GIS units equipped with alternative gases in the Canary Islands for use as mobile sub-station bays.
- Finally, in 2023, three SF6-free AIS circuit breakers (with CO2 + O2 technology) were installed, while the technical qualification and approval of new gas-free models will continue.
Carbon footprint: a concern for Red Eléctrica and Redeia, its parent company
Carbon footprint: a concern for Red Eléctrica and Redeia, its parent company
We invite you to visit Redeia's website to learn more about our commitment and actions related to carbon footprint within the group.
