On March 13, the Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME) held a crucial workshop to discuss for low-carbon hydrogen regulation following the enactment of Laws No. 14.948/2024 and 14.990/2024. These laws establish the Legal Framework for Low-Carbon Hydrogen and the Special Incentive Regime for Low-Carbon Hydrogen Production (Rehidro), as well as the Development Program for Low-Carbon Hydrogen (PHBC).
Strategy for Low-Carbon Hydrogen Regulation
During the opening session, Thiago Barral, National Secretary for Energy Transition and Planning, outlined the progress made in implementing Brazil’s strategy for low-carbon hydrogen regulation. He emphasized the collaborative efforts of various ministries and agencies in developing a regulatory roadmap.
According to the National Hydrogen Program (PNH2), Brazil’s strategy includes three key targets:
- By 2025: Deploy pilot hydrogen plants in all regions of the country.
- By 2030: Establish Brazil as the most competitive hydrogen producer in the world.
- By 2035: Consolidate hydrogen hubs across the country.
Regulatory Framework and Incentives
The workshop also addressed the standards and procedures for implementing the National Policy for Low-Carbon Hydrogen (PHBC) and the National Hydrogen Program (PNH2). Key insights were provided by Karina Sousa, Director of the Department of Energy Transition (DTE), and Patricia Naccache, General Coordinator of Low-Carbon Energy and Innovation.
Government officials from the Ministry of Finance, including Gustavo Henrique Ferreira and Carlos Colombo, discussed the main aspects of the upcoming regulatory decree. Their presentation focused on the Rehidro incentive program and the PHBC development program, highlighting how these initiatives will shape the industry.
Next Steps for Hydrogen Policy
The 25th Meeting of the National Hydrogen Program Management Committee (Coges-PNH2), held on March 11, played a key role in finalizing the draft decree for the regulation of Law 14.948/2024. This marks a significant milestone in the development of Brazil’s low-carbon hydrogen sector.
The workshop concluded with remarks from Rodrigo Rollemberg, Secretary of Green Economy at the Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade, and Services (MDIC). With over 700 viewers on the MME’s YouTube channel, the event ended with a Q&A session where experts addressed public inquiries.
The Future of Hydrogen in Brazil
Brazil is positioning itself as a global leader, leveraging its vast renewable energy potential and government incentives. The continued development of hydrogen hubs, pilot projects, and regulatory frameworks will be crucial for establishing a competitive and sustainable hydrogen economy.
As the government finalizes the regulatory decree, stakeholders across the energy, industry, and finance sectors will play a vital role in shaping the future of low-carbon hydrogen in Brazil.