In Chile, the push to develop the country’s ports and transform them into a major gateway for green energy is facing a major test. The region, which includes the Magallanes Peninsula, has long been a key player in the global trade of resources such as copper and timber, but it is now poised to become a major hub for green hydrogen and its derivatives. Despite the ambitions, the process of transforming the region into a green energy hub is behind schedule. However, some local projects are now starting to gain momentum.
- Green hydrogen is a key component in the transition to a low-carbon economy, as it can be used to power homes, transport, and industry.
- Chile is seeking to capitalize on European demand for green hydrogen, which is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.
The region’s geostrategic location has made it an attractive target for both the U.S. and China, and a series of major green hydrogen proposals have sparked new port plans. However, the initial crop of proposals has dwindled down to just a few, and some have expressed concerns that the process is moving too slowly.
- One of the key challenges facing the development of green hydrogen in Chile is the need for streamlined zoning, environmental permitting, and logistics.
- Chile’s government is working to address these challenges, with the navy expedited at least two new port concessions.
Despite these challenges, there are bright spots in the region. Chile’s navy has expedited the process of granting new port concessions, and several major green hydrogen projects are now moving forward.
| Project | Description | Location |
| HNH Energy’s $11 billion green ammonia project | Will produce green ammonia at San Gregorio | Magallanes Region |
| Transitional Energy Group’s green ammonia project | Will produce green ammonia on Tierra del Fuego Island | Magallanes Region |
| Total Eren’s green ammonia project | Will import equipment through Argentina and export green ammonia | Magallanes Region |
Chile’s government is committed to supporting the development of green hydrogen, but there are concerns that the process is moving too slowly. “Green hydrogen and its derivatives today face important international challenges that we as a country can’t control,” said Hernán Velasco, project manager of Otway Green Energy. “There are some things controlled by the state that we could advance, but unfortunately we are ever farther away from doing them. If we continue on this path, we won’t be ready to seize the opportunity.”
Despite these challenges, Chile is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for green hydrogen in Europe and beyond. With its strategic location and committed government, the country is poised to become a major player in the green energy sector.
“The future of green energy is not just about the technology, but about the infrastructure and the partnerships that enable it,” said Admiral Jorge Castillo, head of Chile’s navy. “We are committed to supporting the development of green energy in Chile, and we are confident that it will play a major role in the country’s future economy.”
In addition to green hydrogen, Chile is also working to develop its ports and create new opportunities for trade and investment. The country is seeking to strengthen its ties with European countries and other partners in the region, and it is working to create a more favorable business environment for companies looking to invest in green energy. As the global energy landscape continues to evolve, Chile is well-positioned to take advantage of the growing demand for green energy. With its strategic location, committed government, and growing green energy sector, the country is poised to become a major player in the global energy market.
