The development of the Solar-Hydrogen Energy System in Latin America: Potentials, opportunities and barriers

Abstract

Solar-Hydrogen Energy Systems (SHES) are systems whose primary energy source is solar energy, directly or indirectly, and the secondary is hydrogen. Those systems are currently considered as the best option to complement and replace mid-term the energy systems based on fossil fuels. The main objective of the work presented herein is the identification and analysis of the factors involved in the development of SHES in Latin America. The study is a documentary research based on an extensive review of literature. Latin American countries possess an enormous potential of exploitable renewable energy; among them hydropower and biomass are often seen as the most suitable contributors to the energy mix, however SHES might evolve with time to an economic attractive alternative. Studies indicate that rural electrification and urban transport are niche opportunities that will enhance the development of SHES. The barriers hindering in Latin America the development and application of hydrogen energy are discussed: among them Latin American countries invest little in hydrogen energy research, and the few research is concentrated in a limited number of countries; the availability of poor trained and skilled human talent to further develop, adopt and operate this technology, with the consequence of an overall weak formative offer; a non competitive cost structure with respect to the fossil fuel based energy systems; and the lack of an institutional framework that encourages the development of this system. It is concluded that only the concerted action of research centers, universities and the private sector, guided by the government, will make it possible that this unique chemical element via sustainable applications shall contribute to the human development in Latin America.