Pioneering innovation places the country in a prominent position in the global energy transition, with sustainable and economical raw materials
Inaugurated the world’s first hydrogen plant produced from ethanol, a strategic step towards the energy transition in Brazil and the world. This achievement highlights the country’s importance in developing technologies that can accelerate the decarbonization of industries and transport, reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Developed at USP’s Hydrogen Laboratory, this technology uses , a renewable resource widely available in Brazil, which makes the product more accessible and with a lower carbon footprint. Producing hydrogen from ethanol is especially relevant at a time when the world is looking for cleaner energy sources. This process, unlike electrolysis — which requires large amounts of electricity — uses an already renewable source, ensuring lower carbon emissions. According to data from the Institute of Energy and Environment (IEMA), the use of ethanol as a base for hydrogen reduces emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional methods, consolidating Brazil’s position as a leader in the production of clean energy.
The environmental impact is one of the biggest benefits of this new technology. According to the Energy Research Company (EPE), the possibility of using hydrogen as a fuel can significantly reduce gas emissions, especially in the transport sector, where Brazil is still highly dependent on fossil fuels. Ethanol, which is derived from sugar cane, captures CO₂ during the plant’s growth process, which helps offset part of the emissions during hydrogen production. This way, the cycle is more sustainable and directly contributes to carbon reduction goals.
From an economic point of view, this technology brings great opportunities. The export of green hydrogen, produced with renewable sources, is a growing demand in countries such as Germany and Japan, which already have established goals for decarbonization. According to consultancy McKinsey, the global market for green hydrogen could reach a value of US$2.5 trillion by 2050. Brazil, with its ethanol production capacity, has ideal conditions to become one of the main exporters of this new energy source . Studies indicate that, by strengthening this production chain, the country could generate billions of dollars in revenue, creating jobs and encouraging the development of new technologies.
In addition to the economic and environmental impact, this innovation places USP and Brazil as an international reference in research and development. In the current scenario, where the energy transition is a necessity, the use of ethanol as a base for hydrogen is a practical and viable solution, with the capacity to scale to meet national and international demands. With this plant, Brazil takes an important step towards reducing its dependence on fossil fuels and achieving carbon neutrality goals. It is not only a scientific victory, but also an opportunity for the country to assert itself as a leader in renewable energy, integrating itself with global demands for clean and sustainable alternatives.
*This text does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Jovem Pan.
