An overview of the technical and economic opportunities for biogas-based hydrogen production in Latin America
¹Faculty of Engineering, Universidad de Medellín, Carrera 87 No. 30-65, 050030 Medellin, Antioquia, Colombia
²Chair of Biosystems Engineering, Institute of Forestry and Engineering, Estonian University of Life Sciences, 56 Fr. R. Kreutzwald Str., EE51006 Tartu, Estonia
³Department of Mechatronics Engineering - MATyER, Instituto Tecnológico Metropolitano, 050034 Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
⁴Department of Environmental Engineering, Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana Bucaramanga, Kilómetro 7 vía Piedecuesta, 680006 Floridablanca, Colombia
*Correspondence: mluna@udemedellin.edu.co
Abstract:
The growing need for sustainable energy solutions has intensified interest in alternative sources to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Latin America, with its abundant biomass resources from agricultural and industrial activities, offers significant potential for renewable energy generation. Biogas, derived from the anaerobic digestion of organic waste, presents a viable energy carrier and a promising feedstock for hydrogen production, a key component in global decarbonization efforts. Despite these opportunities, the adoption of biogas-based hydrogen production in Latin America remains limited due to high capital costs, technological challenges, inadequate infrastructure, and weak policy frameworks. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the region’s potential by assessing biomass availability, technological pathways, and economic feasibility through data from research institutions and scientific literature. Technologies such as steam methane reforming and emerging biological processes are evaluated, alongside country-specific regulatory frameworks. Findings highlight those countries with strong agricultural sectors, such as Brazil, Argentina, and Colombia, hold high potential. However, economic challenges endure, with substantial investment required for technology deployment. Policy analysis reveals that progressive frameworks and financial incentives in select countries, like Chile and Uruguay, are fostering early adoption. Unlocking the potential of biogas-based hydrogen production in Latin America requires strategic investments, supportive policies, and enhanced regional collaboration. Strengthening these efforts can drive energy security, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and promote economic growth. Supporting regional initiatives with global sustainability objectives will position Latin America as a key player in the transition to renewable energy.
Key words:
biogas-to-hydrogen conversion, economic feasibility of hydrogen, policy frameworks for bioenergy, renewable energy in Latin America, sustainable energy transition