National hydrogen energy program in Brazil

Abstract

To face the 1973 energy crisis and allow a reduction of fossil fuels imports. Brazil has developed an important alcohol program, suited to secure a major share of liquid fuels supply to be used in transportation sectors. National energy resource agencies point out that emphasis should be put on biomass and electricity. Having the second largest hydropower potential in the world, the Brazilian dilemma is that one-third of this potential is situated in the far Amazon region, whereas consumption centres are in the Southeast region. Thus, hydrogen presents itself as an excellent carrier for our country. The energy system in Brazil should be oriented towards a system based on electricity and hydrogen. With the availability of off-peak hydroelectricity at a low cost and new, very large plants starting operation, the situation appears quite favourable for water electrolysis and hydrogen production development. The production of electrolytic hydrogen, which can be transported and stored, is specially interesting because it allows a heavy electricity utilization well-fitted to production management. Its use would modulate and optimize electricity uses. Hydrogen production would be used in the chemical industry and for energy purposes. Relevant aspects of the Brazilian hydrogen energy program are described.