Industry 5.0 represents a step forward in industrial evolution, combining digitalisation with a sustainable, people-centred approach. This model drives the dual green and digital transition, optimising processes through advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and digital twins. In this context, Spain is committed to innovation in renewable energies and green hydrogen, consolidating its leadership in industrial transformation.

The concept of “Industry 5.0” was coined in early 2021 by the European Commission with the aim of steering the sector’s development towards a production model where technology plays a key role not only in enhancing competitiveness but also in generating a positive impact on society. It marks a progression from the era of automation and digitalisation, which focused on efficiency and productivity, towards a model that prioritises human interaction, sustainability, and resilience. This approach seeks to integrate new technologies alongside the capacity to adapt and respond to environmental and social challenges.

In this regard, Industry 5.0 is not meant to replace Industry 4.0 but rather to complement the progress brought about by various technologies and to enhance the positive relationship between people and machines.

In Industry 5.0, the twin green and digital transition is fundamental to addressing global challenges in a comprehensive way. That is why sustainability, the central role of people, and resilience become the three main pillars of the new industry, alongside digitalisation.

A process that involves the adoption of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and robotics. Additionally, a strong commitment to sustainability through the efficient use of resources and minimising environmental impact. From my point of view, technology is the key that unlocks a world, making it more sustainable and connected.

Recent studies confirm that over 91% of Spanish companies state that digital technology plays an essential or important role in achieving their five-year growth objectives. In fact, these companies have increased their investments in digital technology by 48% in the last 12 months.

Another disruptive technology that emerged during the transition from Industry 4.0 was digital twins, capable of maximising the benefits of digital transformation in industry through process simulation and analysis. The digital twin optimises operations and improves the efficiency of any facility. Later on, I will dedicate a full article to this technology, covering its benefits and applications across multiple sectors.

Spain is making significant progress in renewable energy capacity, with a special focus on wind and solar power. By 2030, the country aims to reach 70 GW of renewable energy capacity to drive the transition towards a more sustainable and decarbonised energy mix, alongside the development of green hydrogen projects. This commitment to clean energy not only reflects Spain’s leadership in the energy transition but also highlights its role in promoting disruptive technologies within the energy sector.

Spain’s commitment to green hydrogen is reflected in the launch of the Hydrogen Roadmap in 2020, which sets ambitious targets for the production and use of this resource. The strategy includes the installation of 4 GW of electrolyser capacity by 2030, the development of hydrogen corridors, and the creation of a network of hydrogen refuelling stations to promote its use in transport.

Green hydrogen is considered a key element as a sustainable and versatile solution for reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Spain, with its high renewable energy generation capacity, has the potential to become a European leader in the production and export of green hydrogen.

Green hydrogen, produced through sustainable methods, is fundamental for the future of clean energy. The use of digital twins in green hydrogen production not only enables a virtual representation of generation systems but also facilitates their continuous optimisation, resulting in an efficient integration of digitalisation and sustainability. Spain, with its focus on innovation and sustainability, is well positioned to lead in this area, demonstrating how technology and ecology can work together to advance towards Industry 5.0.

Industry 5.0 marks a significant advancement by integrating technology with a more human, sustainable, and resilient approach, enhancing the achievements of Industry 4.0 rather than replacing them. The green and digital twin transition is key in this process, driving production models that are efficient and environmentally responsible. Spain, with its commitment to renewable energies and green hydrogen, positions itself as a benchmark in this transformation. The adoption of technologies such as artificial intelligence and digital twins not only optimises industrial processes but also strengthens innovation and competitiveness in an ever-evolving global market.