By: Antonio J. Ruiz
CEO of Bettergy
2024: A Turning Point for Spain’s Energy Savings Certificate (CAE) Market
2024 has been a pivotal year for the Energy Savings Certificate (CAE) market in Spain. At Bettergy, we have closely monitored the evolution of a system with enormous potential to transform energy efficiency. However, it still faces challenges that must be addressed with determination and strategic vision, always aligned with the European principle of Energy Efficiency First.
Progress and Areas for Improvement
Energy efficiency not only reduces costs but also drives innovation and enhances business competitiveness in a world where energy resources are limited and a key source of competitive advantage. In 2024, the value of energy savings reached €182.37/MWh, mobilizing over €850 million towards projects that promote decarbonization.
The Directive (EU) 2023/1791 and Regulation (EU) 2023/955 have been instrumental in catalyzing investments in energy efficiency. These regulations establish that before investing in new generation infrastructure, savings and consumption optimization measures must be applied. This prioritization reduces overall demand, decreases dependence on fossil fuels, and accelerates the transition to a decarbonized economy, strengthening both sustainability and business competitiveness.
At Bettergy, we have democratized access to CAEs through our platform caes.bettergy.es, backed by years of experience and EnergySequence, our monitoring and data analytics platform. Our extensive expertise in key industrial sectors—food, ceramics, chemicals, and manufacturing—along with complex technical projects, has positioned us as leaders in the field.
Key Challenges in 2024
Lack of Penetration in Small-Scale Projects
The CAE system has yet to sufficiently reach SMEs and smaller-scale projects, where savings opportunities are significant. The complexity of procedures and associated costs have hindered adoption.
Limited Participation from Large Industrial Consumers
Many energy-intensive industries have yet to adopt CAEs, missing out on significant savings and optimization opportunities. A lack of awareness and confidence in the system remains a major barrier.
Concentration Among Obligated Parties
Large certified projects have been concentrated among obligated parties, limiting market diversification and reducing the impact on other key sectors.
Future Strategies
Singular Projects
We will continue to serve as a bridge to enhance the profitability, innovation, and competitiveness of Spanish industry. Our deep expertise—both national and international—on industrial process optimization is a crucial asset that allows us to lead the market with unparalleled knowledge, experience, and capabilities. This expertise enables us to tackle complex projects and ensure profitable savings.
Standardized Projects
To reduce verification costs, we have promoted CAE democratization through caes.bettergy.es, forging alliances with installers and technology manufacturers while organizing training sessions and webinars. This approach facilitates SME and small industry access to the CAE system.
Lessons from Other Markets
France and Italy faced similar challenges during the early years of their CAE systems. France introduced standardized certificates that simplified small project certification, while Italy expanded its network of verifiers and digitized processes, leading to a 35% growth in CAE issuance during its second year.
Spain must adopt similar approaches, simplifying procedures for projects under 1,000 MWh and granting greater prominence to delegated entities. Integrating energy efficiency from project design through execution is key to maximizing results.
2025: Expanding the CAE Market
The Ministerial Proposal for the Ecological Transition has a clear goal: to mobilize up to €1 billion in energy efficiency projects by 2025. Aligned with Energy Efficiency First, this framework aims to maximize savings and reduce unnecessary consumption.
The new financial equivalence for 2025 is set at €2.20 million per ktep saved (equivalent to €189,165.95/GWh), representing a significant increase over the previous year. While some obligated parties have expressed concerns, this increase underscores the importance of driving more projects and recognizing the greater economic value of energy savings.
Conclusion
The CAE market represents a critical opportunity to accelerate decarbonization and position companies as leaders in sustainability and competitiveness. Overcoming current challenges requires process simplification, digitalization, and increased SME and energy-intensive industry participation.
At Bettergy, we firmly believe that 2025 will be the year when CAEs become a fundamental tool for Spain’s energy transformation. The time to act is now. Energy efficiency will continue to be the most profitable and sustainable energy source, key to achieving national, European, and global savings and decarbonization objectives.