Resumo:
With the global need to transition the energy matrix, several countries are seeking to expand the use of renewable energy sources. In this context, interest in green hydrogen technology is growing, and Brazil, due to its high renewable generation potential, stands out as a strong candidate to lead in the production and export of this fuel. The aim of this study is to evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of green hydrogen production in Brazil for export purposes. To achieve this, a fictional case study is developed, in which a photovoltaic generation system is sized to supply power to an alkaline water electrolyzer with a 20-year lifespan, installed in the municipality of Cabo de Santo Agostinho, in the state of Pernambuco. The economic feasibility analysis is conducted using the Payback method, Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), and the Levelized Cost of Hydrogen (LCOH). Based on a scenario analysis, results indicate that the minimum selling price per kilogram of hydrogen to enable export ranges from US$ 4.11 in an optimistic scenario to US$ 4.73 in a pessimistic one. It is concluded that the high costs of the electrolyzer and renewable electricity are the main barriers to economic feasibility. Therefore, technological advancements in these areas are essential to make the investment more attractive and competitive in the international market.
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