Green Hydrogen
The economy of Rio Grande do Sul is highly representative in sectors that can benefit and have an internal demand for green hydrogen such as agriculture, chemical industry, refineries.
The production of H2V depends on aspects in which Rio Grande do Sul shows a differential, such as the fact that 80% of its energy matrix is made up of renewable energies, and local differences in demand and infrastructure. Wind energy has seen a significant increase in the energy matrix from 2% in 2010 to 19% in 2020. The total theoretical capacity of solar energy is ~100GW on land, with ~1 already in operation or planned.
In this sense, 49% of energy consumption sources in Rio Grande do Sul are impacted by the application of green hydrogen.
In addition to curbing environmental impacts, the development of the H2V chain aims to foster regional economic development and generate jobs, income and quality of life. To make its production feasible, the State has been formalizing partnerships with several internationally recognized companies.
Four memorandums of understanding have already been signed with the companies White Martins, Enerfín, Neoenergia and Ocean Winds, which are interested in carrying out studies or implementing projects related to sustainable hydrogen in Rio Grande do Sul. Most of these projects consider integration with investments in offshore wind farms , on the high seas.
Rio Grande do Sul is the only matrix in Brazil that has a feasibility study for the production and commercialization of green hydrogen. The American consulting firm, McKinsey & Company, was hired to study the prospects for the H2V market in the state. The company drew up a detailed plan for the economic development of the sector.
Rio Grande do Sul has several competitive advantages for the production of H2V, such as the great potential for wind and solar energy generation. Currently, 82% of the state's electricity matrix is renewable. In addition, abundant natural resources, the extensive coastline and the occurrence of lakes may also favor this new market.
The port structure in Rio Grande do Sul is another positive factor, which could facilitate the flow of production. The State has three public ports – in Rio Grande, Porto Alegre and Pelotas. This infrastructure makes it possible to connect the southern region with other Brazilian, European and American markets. The State also has a good logistical and productive base, transmission lines, waterways, highways and railways, as well as universities and science and technology centers.
With the H2V, the State intends to have a new productive identity and a new economic vocation.
https://www.proclima2050.rs.gov.br/sobre