Green hydrogen production from hydro spilled energy in Brazilian hydropower plants

Abstract

This study explores the technical, economic, and regulatory aspects of harnessing hydroelectric spilled energy for Green Hydrogen (GH2) production. Addressing challenges such as efficiency, infrastructure, and cost, it underscores the potential of GH2 in Brazil’s electrical matrix. The research identifies substantial potential for this type of GH2 production in Brazil, estimating a range between 140,669.92 and 1,406,699.17 tons during the analyzed period, with emphasis on the Southeast/Midwest and North subsystems. This represents 7.43% of Brazil’s annual potential for low-carbon hydrogen production. GH2-based electricity production could reach 2,814 to 28,134 GWh, supplying significant portions of Brazil’s energy consumption. Notably, GH2’s surplus electricity, entirely carbon-free, could mitigate up to 22.28 million tons of CO2 emissions, highlighting its pivotal role in maximizing renewable energy utilization and supporting global decarbonization efforts, positioning Brazil as a prominent player in this GH2 production domain.