Hydrogen energy for change: SWOT analysis for energy transition

Abstract

Energy is crucial for technological, scientific, and societal development. Since industrialization, the quest for cheap and abundant energy has led to reliance on fossil fuels across key societal sectors. However, this unrestrained use of fossil fuels has driven climate change, particularly through significant greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The early 21st century has seen heightened environmental awareness and efforts to mitigate environmental damage, leading to a search for alternative energy sources. Hydrogen has emerged as a promising energy source due to its potential for low GHG emissions. This paper presents a literature review on hydrogen technologies and economics, outlining the processes for developing an efficient and safe hydrogen infrastructure. The review encompasses all stages of the hydrogen pathway: production, storage, transportation, and end use. Based on this review, two SWOT analyses are conducted: one for the global context and one specific to Brazil, incorporating the studies on the review and Brazil-specific research. These analyses have enabled the development of a potential hydrogen economy in Brazil, based on green hydrogen, for which the country has significant generation potential. However, it also highlights the challenges to be addressed, such as hydrogen storage, which poses a threat both globally and within Brazil. Additionally, the transportation of hydrogen to major consumption centers could be challenging, as production may occur in areas distant from large urban centers due to the country’s vast territorial expanse.