Chile is taking bold steps towards a sustainable energy future with President Daniel Boric’s introduction of the Green Hydrogen Action Plan.
Developed collaboratively by the Strategic Committee, including prominent figures like former President Michelle Bachelet and Minister of Energy Diego Pardow, this initiative sets a significant precedent in the global transition towards green hydrogen.
The Green Hydrogen Action Plan is an extensive roadmap comprising 81 measures across 18 lines of work, strategically structured to unfold in two distinct phases. The initial phase, spanning 2023 to 2026, lays the groundwork for industry development, focusing on establishing essential conditions and defining environmental and social standards. Subsequently, from 2026 to 2030, the plan shifts gears towards territorial planning, regulatory frameworks, local development initiatives, citizen engagement, and human capital preparation, all aimed at driving green hydrogen advancement.
A cornerstone of the plan is the integration of electrolyzer equipment in technical-professional high schools, beginning in the Magallanes Region and extending to Antofagasta and Biobío. This strategic move not only fosters hands-on learning opportunities but also cultivates a skilled workforce essential for the hydrogen industry’s growth.
Furthermore, the launch of the H2V Facility Window with Green Credit is set to facilitate hydrogen project financing, providing vital support for the sector’s expansion. The allocation of tax land for green hydrogen endeavors, particularly prioritizing projects in the Antofagasta Region, underscores Chile’s commitment to fostering a conducive business environment for sustainable energy ventures.
The Green Hydrogen Action Plan also encompasses crucial policy enhancements, including revisions to the R&D law and streamlining of environmental evaluation processes, aimed at reducing bureaucratic hurdles and incentivizing innovation.
Moreover, leveraging Corfo promotion instruments to bolster green hydrogen initiatives, coupled with measures to stimulate domestic hydrogen demand through an emissions trading system, reflects Chile’s multifaceted approach towards accelerating the adoption of green hydrogen.
Central to the plan’s success is extensive public engagement, with over 1,000 industry representatives and civil society organizations actively contributing to 22 citizen hearings and workshops nationwide. The robust public consultation phase, which garnered approximately 1,900 comments and observations, underscores Chile’s commitment to inclusive policymaking and transparency.
