São Paulo government has teamed up with Toyota and Shell to embark on an ambitious journey towards producing green hydrogen from ethanol.
This innovative endeavor, set to unfold within the precincts of the University of São Paulo (USP), represents a pivotal step towards creating the world’s first pilot plant to undertake this revolutionary process.
Ethanol, a renewable fuel derived from agribusiness, is set to be the cornerstone of Brazil’s green hydrogen production. Primarily sourced from sugarcane, Brazil reigns as the world’s largest producer of this eco-friendly fuel. São Paulo, home to half of the nation’s sugarcane harvest, is at the forefront of this sustainable revolution.
The project hinges on cutting-edge Brazilian technology, with Hytron, in partnership with USP, Senai, and Raízen, spearheading the development of plant equipment. Anticipated to commence operations in the latter half of 2024, the pilot plant will have the capacity to generate 4.5 kilograms of hydrogen per hour.
Daniel Lopes, Director of Hytron Commercial, exclaims, “We are harnessing Hytron’s pioneering Brazilian technology to showcase a disruptive solution. Hydrogen derived from ethanol is poised to play a pivotal, impactful role in Brazil’s energy transition and beyond.”
Raízen, a joint venture between Shell and Cosan, stands as a testament to the fusion of fossil fuel expertise with renewable vigor. Cristiano Pinto da Costa, President of Shell Brasil, underscores the innovation, stating, “This pioneering project aims to illustrate ethanol’s potential as a carrier of renewable hydrogen, leveraging the existing logistical strengths of the industry. The technology holds the promise of decarbonizing sectors reliant on fossil fuels.”
Toyota, a stalwart in innovative mobility solutions, contributes its prowess to this transformative journey. With a vision to test the application of green hydrogen derived from ethanol, Toyota is integrating its insights into the project. The iconic Toyota Mirai, the world’s first commercial hydrogen-powered car, will be instrumental in these tests.
Rafael Chang, President of Toyota Brazil, elaborates, “Brazil’s innate affinity for biofuels aligns with our belief in hydrogen’s role as a clean, renewable energy source. It holds immense potential in combating CO₂ emissions.”
Beyond private mobility, this visionary project extends its influence to public transport. Companhia Paulista de Trens Metropolitanos is contributing two buses to partake in testing within the USP campus. This holistic approach reflects the multifaceted impact of green hydrogen on diverse sectors.
While Brazil’s proficiency in ethanol production is undeniable, the transformation of this green fuel into hydrogen poses a unique set of challenges. Technical intricacies, economic viability, and scalability stand as potential hurdles. Yet, the successful realization of this pilot plant could propel Brazil into the forefront of green hydrogen innovation, bolstering its status as a global renewable energy leader.