In a gathering of industry experts from Latin America, the Caribbean, and Mexico, the World Hydrogen Latin America Summit unfolded in Santiago, providing a platform for crucial discussions on the burgeoning trends in hydrogen development as a fuel across the region.
The summit, attended by stakeholders and facilitated by MundoMarítimo, delved into multifaceted topics ranging from hydrogen certification and governmental roles to environmental considerations, permitting processes, regulatory frameworks, finances, risks, social value, and the intricate web of infrastructure, distribution, and storage.
One of the standout presentations was the panel titled “Reviewing The Offtake Market: Insight from End Users,” where experts shed light on the pivotal aspects shaping the future of green hydrogen. Emphasizing collaboration between private entities and the involvement of states at a regional level, the panel provided a comprehensive outlook on the development of green hydrogen.
In an exclusive conversation with MundoMarítimo, Alexis Rodríguez, Regional Head of Energy Transition at Maersk, shared invaluable perspectives, particularly focusing on the need for global standards in the use of hydrogen as an energy source. Rodríguez highlighted the absence of a defined global standard for the production and utilization of hydrogen, underscoring the importance of unified rules for quality, production, and consumption. He emphasized that such unification is pivotal in accelerating the transition to hydrogen as a widely adopted energy source.
Rodríguez stressed the critical role of infrastructure in ensuring the viability of hydrogen as a fuel. Beyond selecting strategic locations, the construction of infrastructure must consider the capacity to sustain the calorific value of hydrogen. Given the substantial distances between regions, both by sea and land, Rodríguez called for a well-defined roadmap for infrastructure installation to enhance competitiveness while considering geographical challenges.
Certification emerged as a key point in the discussion, with a particular focus on green hydrogen. Rodríguez underscored the importance of certifying that the fuel attains a ‘net zero’ level and is traceable throughout its lifecycle. Certification becomes a linchpin in ensuring the environmental credentials of green hydrogen, addressing concerns about authenticity and sustainability.
On the front of public policies and regulations, Rodríguez acknowledged the proactive stance of private companies and the industry. However, he emphasized the need for states to streamline processes to align with environmental objectives. Maersk’s commitment to achieving carbon reduction targets in maritime, land, and air transport by 2030, with a vision for net-zero by 2040, serves as a testament to private industry’s dedication to environmental sustainability.
As the momentum for hydrogen as a clean energy source gathers pace, the insights shared at the World Hydrogen Latin America Summit signal a collective commitment to navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the region’s hydrogen journey.
