Fabio Fritelli: how the Mediterranean is driving low-carbon pathways

June 3, 2026 - PRLog -- Fabio Fritelli: green ambitions meet economic reality

Fabio Fritelli (https://www.energyconnects.com/videos/video-interviews/2026/april/how-nextchem-sees-the-mediterranean-shaping-low-carbon-pathways/) emphasized that the energy debate has expanded far beyond fossil fuels. Today's mix includes renewables, nuclear, and biofuels, all working alongside gas to meet rapidly growing global demand, especially as new pressures such as AI drive unprecedented energy consumption. Within this shifting landscape, Egypt stands out due to its geographic and resource advantages, positioning it as a key player in both traditional and alternative energy markets. A central theme of the discussion was green ammonia, often seen as a promising carrier of clean energy. However, Fabio Fritelli spoke about its current limitations. While green ammonia is easier to store and transport than hydrogen, it remains significantly more expensive than its grey or blue counterparts. Despite this, geopolitical tensions and energy security concerns have renewed interest across Europe and North Africa. Governments and industry players are revisiting projects that link solar power to hydrogen production and ultimately to green ammonia, particularly for use in fertilizers. Cost competitiveness remains a major barrier to widespread adoption. Investment strategies, according to Fabio Fritelli, are increasingly shaped by each country's natural resources. Countries rich in mineral resources are focusing on renewable energy and biofuels, whereas regions rich in gas are concentrating on reducing emissions through carbon capture and improving energy efficiency. Meanwhile, nuclear energy is returning to the forefront of the debate as a long-term solution. Although its implementation takes longer, its durability and efficiency over decades make it an attractive option for countries willing to think in generational terms.

Fabio Fritelli: pragmatic innovation and the role of nuclear

Fabio Fritelli also addressed the challenge of decarbonising industrial sectors where it is difficult to reduce emissions, such as the cement, steel and paper industries. These sectors often operate on tight margins, making large-scale investment difficult in the absence of clear economic incentives. One possible solution is to integrate nuclear energy into industrial processes. Nuclear plants can generate high-temperature steam, ranging from 300 to 750 degrees Celsius, which could be directly used in industrial applications, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering emissions. When it comes to innovation, Nextchem aims to develop technologies that have already proven their effectiveness on a large scale. Rather than focusing on basic research, the company invests in solutions that are ready for industrial application. Among the most promising sectors is the development of sustainable fuels derived from green electricity, an area that could play a crucial role in the decarbonisation of transport and heavy industry. Reflecting on the broader energy transition, Fabio Fritelli underscored the importance of realism and cooperation. He noted that the past few years have exposed the risks of overly optimistic assumptions about the speed and simplicity of going green.