Although the growth in energy consumption has not been high, Spain increased its carbon emissions in 2007, distancing itself a little further from the targets set by the Kyoto protocol, which limited the increase to 15% of the 1990 value, calculated for the period from 2008 to 2012. Spain is the European country that is furthest away from this target, but we continue to have per capita carbon emissions below the average of the more developed block of the Union. Energy consumption per inhabitant in Spain is equivalent to 91% of the average consumption in the Union.

In this area, electricity generation enterprises are making notable efforts. Making a commitment to natural gas combined cycle power stations is one of such efforts. In addition, large amounts are being invested to modernise coal power stations; research is being carried out on the possibility of trapping CO₂ (one example is the future construction of a pilot plant near the Elcogás power station); we have reached an outstanding position in the world with regard to power installed in wind energy generation; and photovoltaic energy generation is being developed successfully, among other actions. These actions include the National strategy on climatic change and clean energy, Horizon 2007-2012-2020, which includes an urgent solutions plan comprising 198 measures and 75 indicators. The aim is to ensure the reduction of greenhouse-effect gas emissions. During the same Cabinet Meeting, the government adopted the Plan for urgent strategic measures and the Action plan for energy efficiency and saving 2008-2012.

The approval of the final allocation of emission rights for the period 2008-2012 at the beginning of November has been another of the government's actions aimed at limiting emissions. The agreement considers the allocation of rights for just over 1000 facilities.