ANALYSIS OF THE PRODUCTION AND EXPORT POTENTIAL OF GREEN HYDROGEN IN THE BRAZILIAN NORTHEAST

Abstract

The objective of this work is to describe the geographical, political, and economic conditions that position the Northeast region of Brazil as a global highlight for future green hydrogen (H 2V) production. To achieve this, we began with a detailed analysis of the state of the art of hydrogen (H 2), including its value chain, diverse technological routes, production costs, risks associated with storage and distribution, as well as the prospects for implementing H 2V in the Brazilian electrical matrix by the year 2050. Additionally, we analyzed the potential for renewable energy production in Brazil using data from the National Electric Energy Agency's (ANEEL) Generation Information System. The results indicate that the majority of the total licensed power from centralized wind (91.2%) and photovoltaic solar (60.6%) power plants in the country are located in the Northeast region. Therefore, considering that green hydrogen is produced through water electrolysis, using electricity derived entirely from renewable energy sources, particularly wind and photovoltaic solar energy, this fact confirms one of the main technical and economic factors that make this region privileged. Other equally important factors are related to political and governmental incentives to attract foreign investments, promoted by its own leaders, who have already secured agreements totaling around R$ 340 billion, mainly for the export of H2V and ammonia to the European market.