RMIT and CIEMAT strengthen Spain–Australia partnership on clean energy

RMIT and CIEMAT strengthen Spain–Australia partnership on clean energy

RMIT University and Spain's national energy and environmental research centre CIEMAT have met in Madrid to explore new opportunities for collaboration that support the transition to a fossil-free energy system.

The workshop brought together representatives from RMIT, CIEMAT, the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), consultancy EDIPAE and Australian company KAI-2.

Discussions focused on integrating electricity, heat and green molecules to accelerate decarbonisation and drive innovation in emerging energy technologies.

RMIT's Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Distinguished Professor Calum Drummond, and Professor Xavier Mulet joined CIEMAT Director General Yolanda Benito and Energy Department Director Emilio Gómez.

RMIT and Ciemat working session in MadridCIEMAT Director General Yolanda Benito welcomed Distinguished Professor Calum Drummond and the RMIT University delegation

Participants noted that Spain and Australia, both leaders in renewable energy deployment, now face shared challenges in decommissioning, repowering and modernising solar and wind assets.

These challenges present significant opportunities for new technological solutions and the creation of highly specialised jobs.

Speaking at the workshop, Austrade Director of Investments Elena Laburu outlined opportunities for Spain–Australia collaboration in research and innovation, while KAI-2 Commercial Director Vladimir Finn presented tools to support project development from the early concept stage through to market delivery.

The workshop also explored international funding opportunities and collaboration pathways for future joint projects, including Australia's expected participation in Pillar II of the Horizon Europe program from January 2027. 

Spain is a key partner for RMIT and a gateway for collaboration across Europe. 

This visit was facilitated by RMIT Europe, RMIT University’s innovation hub in Barcelona, which works with industry, government and research organisations across Europe through a team of more than 40 specialists. 

22 July 2026

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22 July 2026

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