Latin America's Bold Leap into Green Hydrogen
Caracas, Wednesday, 25 June 2025.
By 2025, Latin America and the Caribbean aim for a 75% renewable energy mix, spotlighting green hydrogen. Despite challenges, their progress could reshape global energy dynamics.
Harnessing the Wind and Sun
Latin America’s renewable energy ambitions are largely driven by solar and wind initiatives. Projects like Zelestra’s 300 MW San Martín solar plant in Peru are coming online, powering hundreds of thousands of homes. This showcases the region’s potential to reduce CO₂ emissions significantly. Yet, it highlights the need for strategic investment to overcome infrastructure and regulatory hurdles [1][5].
The Role of Green Hydrogen
Latin America aims to become a global hub for green hydrogen, investing in 36 new projects set to commence by 2030. Despite the exciting prospects, challenges like developing suitable infrastructure and securing investments loom large. Without comprehensive policies, these ambitious goals risk faltering [1][4].
Geopolitical Influences
China’s growing influence and investment in the region cannot be understated. Their involvement could change the strategic landscape of Latin America’s energy market. This partnership adds an additional layer of complexity to the area’s energy transition, blending economic ties with renewable ambitions [2].
Future Prospects
The region’s potential impact on global hydrogen markets is substantial, with plans increasing renewable capacity. Success hinges on overcoming bottlenecks like regulatory delays and investment challenges. If managed well, Latin America’s renewable revolution could echo globally, reducing dependence on fossil fuels [3][4].