Characteristics and influence of macroenvironment in the Brazilian hydrogen energy sector

Abstract

Hydrogen is a promising alternative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and replace fossil fuels globally. However, the feasibility of this alternative is subject to various factors beyond market conditions, including political, economic, and technological conditions. The goal is to assess the potential opportunities and challenges the macroenvironment presents for developing hydrogen energy use in Brazil. The PESTEL framework was utilized, drawing on bibliographic, documentary, and survey data to evaluate the political (e.g., government management), economic (e.g., macro and microeconomic indicators), social (e.g., patterns and trends in social behavior), technological (e.g., research and innovation), environmental (e.g., characteristics and problems in the natural environment), and legal (e.g., rules, regulation and laws) segments from 2009 to 2021. The political segment significantly impacts the potential for developing the hydrogen sector. While the economic segment poses several threats, the technological, legal, and environmental segments represent significant opportunities. This analysis provides valuable insights into the macroenvironment's characteristics and its influence on developing hydrogen as a sustainable energy resource in Brazil.