The digital and green transition dilemma: Is there room for everything? Insights from the next decade (2025–2035) in Aragón (Spain)

Torrubia, Jorge ; Truta Beserra de Lima, Alessandro (Universidad de Zaragoza) ; Valero, Alicia (Universidad de Zaragoza) ; Valero, Antonio (Universidad de Zaragoza)

Resumen: The simultaneous green and digital transitions are creating new land and water demands that compete with traditional uses. Using Aragón (Spain) as a case study, this work examines whether these transitions are compatible. Aragón was selected for its strong renewable energy potential, low population density (allowing land availability), and government support for green hydrogen (GH) and data center (DC) projects, though these initiatives face growing local opposition. We analyzed projected impacts for 2025–2035 estimating electricity and water consumption for DC and GH, and land needs for wind and photovoltaic electricity under three scenarios. Results indicate Aragón's electricity demand could rise sixfold to fifteenfold by 2035, with DC and GH production representing 85 % of total demand. Supplying Aragón's electricity would require 9–39 % of land to host renewables, and depending on renewables deployment, Aragón could shift from a historic electricity exporter to an importer. Water use could grow 41–124 % relative to current economic consumption, and seasonal demand from DC could lead to conflicts. These findings call into question the current pace and compatibility of the twin transition. We recommend integrated planning that prioritizes the green transition, imposes environmental limits, and compensates affected regions to ensure a sustainable, equitable transition.

Idioma: Inglés

DOI: 10.1016/j.enpol.2025.115061

Año: 2026

Publicado en: ENERGY POLICY 210 (2026), 115061 [14 pp.]
ISSN: 0301-4215

Financiación: info:eu-repo/grantAgreement/ES/MICIU/PID2023-148401OB-I00

Tipo y forma: Article (Published version)

Área (Departamento): Área Máquinas y Motores Térmi. (Dpto. Ingeniería Mecánica)