Panel of experts analyzed the key role of green hydrogen in the just transition in the region
At a crucial time in the fight against climate change and the quest for sustainable development, Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) is at an energy crossroads. The region, rich in natural resources and with a growing potential for innovation, has the opportunity to become a global leader in the production and use of green hydrogen, a clean energy source that can decarbonize key sectors and open new pathways to a more prosperous future.
For this reason, in the framework of the visit of European Commissioner for Energy Kadri Simson, the Delegation of the European Union to Chile and the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) organized a panel discussion entitled “Navigating the Just Energy Transition: Green Hydrogen as a Catalyst for Sustainable Development in Latin America and the Caribbean”. The event, held on July 1, 2024 at ECLAC headquarters in Santiago, Chile, brought together a group of leading experts from various sectors to discuss the potential of green hydrogen as a driver of a just transition in the region.
The panel was moderated by José Manuel Salazar-Xirinachs, Executive Secretary of ECLAC, who guided the dialogue towards the central issues of energy transition and green hydrogen in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). Among the panelists were the European Commissioner for Energy, Kadri Simson, and Diego Pardow, Minister of Energy of Chile, who addressed the vast opportunities that the country presents for a just energy transition. Also participating were Marcela Angulo, Director of the Santiago branch of the Universidad de Concepción, who provided an in-depth perspective on the social and economic aspects of a just transition, and Clara Bowman, COO of HIF Global, who shared best practices that the private sector has implemented to strengthen relationships with local communities.
Throughout the panel, experts agreed that green hydrogen has transformative potential for the region. Its ability to decarbonise sectors such as transport, industry and power generation, together with its potential to create new jobs and business opportunities, make it a key player in building a more sustainable and equitable energy future.
However, they also highlighted the need to address the challenges for green hydrogen to become a tangible reality in Latin America and the Caribbean. These challenges include: the development of a sound regulatory framework, the creation of local demand and the inclusion of local communities.
In conclusion, the ECLAC panel on green hydrogen left a clear message: in Latin America and the Caribbean there is potential for the region to become a leader in the production and use of green hydrogen, driving a fair and sustainable energy transformation in the region. As underlined by Commissioner Simson, however, to achieve this goal, a joint effort is needed from governments, the private sector, academia and civil society. A strong commitment to investment, innovation and collaboration is required to make green hydrogen a reality and build a cleaner, more prosperous and equitable energy future for generations to come.
Image Credit: EU Delegation in Chile