- With Initial Studies Conducted in Bahia and Plans for Expansion to Other States
- This initiative aligns with Petrobras’ strategic commitment to exploring sustainable energy sources and contributing to decarbonization efforts.
- Petrobras Spearheads Natural Hydrogen Extraction Research with $4 Million Investment
Brazilian energy giant Petrobras has announced a significant investment of R$20 million ($4 million) into research focused on the extraction and viability of natural hydrogen, beginning in Bahia with aspirations to extend into additional states. This investment forms part of their broader 2024-2028+ Strategic Plan, emphasizing a shift towards renewable energy resources that do not emit greenhouse gases.
Natural hydrogen, also known as geological hydrogen, originates within the planet through natural processes and is stored in underground reservoirs, potentially offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly energy solution. Since October 2023, Petrobras has been at the forefront of this research, driven by a desire to harness this clean energy source more effectively.
The company has also been actively engaging with the scientific community, hosting events like the first Natural Hydrogen Workshop at its Research Center (Cenpes) in March this year. These efforts are in line with training initiatives that began in 2022, aimed at equipping Petrobras’ technical staff with a deep understanding of natural hydrogen potentials.
Collaboration forms a cornerstone of Petrobras’ strategy, with the company forming alliances with both national and international institutions and firms to advance its research and testing capabilities in natural hydrogen prospecting.
Carlos José do Nascimento Travassos, Director of Engineering, Technology, and Innovation at Petrobras, underscored the strategic importance of these initiatives, stating, “Hydrogen is one of the most promising alternatives to achieve decarbonization goals. Petrobras, as planned in its strategic planning, is studying the hydrogen value chain with project studies, strategic partnerships focused on the product market, and research and development studies of activities. Studies related to natural hydrogen put us at the forefront in the analysis of the potential of this source in Brazil.”
Petrobras’ commitment to renewable energy research is further evidenced by its February 2024 announcement of an $18 million investment in a pilot electrolysis plant for green hydrogen research. Despite the cost challenges highlighted by industry analysts, with natural hydrogen potentially being a more economical option than conventional grey hydrogen, Petrobras’ continued investment in this area is pivotal. According to energy research firm Rystad Energy, the industry is experiencing a surge in the search for natural hydrogen deposits, indicating growing interest and confidence in its viability.
As Petrobras projects its research and development spending for the low-carbon economy to reach $700 million by 2028, representing a significant increase in its overall R&D budget, it is clear that the company is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable energy innovations aimed at supporting global decarbonization efforts.
Read the most up to date Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Industry news at FuelCellsWorks
