Assessment of Green Hydrogen Production from Hydropower in Ecuador

Green hydrogen is a promising renewable energy carrier produced through the electrolysis of water using renewable electricity. It offers a carbon-free alternative for various energy-intensive sectors, such as transportation, industry, and power generation. With its potential to decarbonize sectors that are difficult to electrify, green hydrogen plays a vital role in advancing the transition to a sustainable and low-carbon future. Countries that are rich in renewable resources are attracted to supply their industrial hydrogen needs as well as contributing to the environmental target in shifting from fossil fuels to cleaner processes without compromising current industrial development. Although yet inexistent, an emerging international green hydrogen market could attract even more world participants toward the path of sustainable hydrogen production for transport and industry. In this context, Ecuador has been identified as a viable candidate due to its hydrological resources and extensive renewable generation system based on hydroelectric power. This study investigates the feasibility of green hydrogen production in Ecuador, considering water availability in hydroelectric power plants, future demand projections, and the additional electrolysis requirements, with the aim of assessing the viability of introducing such production for local consumption and potential exportation.