INERATEC, a German Power-to-X leader, has partnered with the German development agency GIZ to promote e-fuel production in Chile. The collaboration is part of the International Hydrogen Ramp-Up program (H2Uppp), funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK). The goal is to demonstrate a feasible and commercially viable solution for Power-to-Liquid (PtL) plants using modular synthesis units.
E-fuels can replace fossil fuels in transportation sectors like ships, airplanes, trucks, and cars. Local e-fuel production aligns with Chile’s hydrogen strategy and supports renewable energy expansion. Producing e-fuels from green hydrogen domestically could enhance Chile’s industrial competitiveness, reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels, and mitigate risks associated with fluctuating oil prices and supply disruptions.
Assessing Chile’s E-Fuel Potential
The initiative includes assessing Chile’s e-fuel production potential, identifying buyers and raw material suppliers, and optimizing plant designs for local conditions. Collaboration with local institutions, industries, universities, and communities aims to establish a sustainable e-fuel value chain.
INERATEC’s CCO, Philipp Engelkamp, envisions a large-scale e-fuel plant in Chile, capable of recycling tons of CO2 every hour. The modular approach allows capacity expansion alongside renewable energy infrastructure and CO2 sources. INERATEC’s local partner, Ferrostaal Chile, facilitates strong connections to drive project development and supply substantial amounts of e-fuels, addressing challenging sectors like aviation and steering Chile toward a sustainable future.
The global effort to limit climate change demands decarbonization and new technologies across sectors. E-fuels, produced from renewable electricity and CO2, present a promising option for sectors like mining, maritime transportation, aviation, and heavy-duty transport, especially in countries like Chile with abundant wind and solar resources.
The PtL project development stimulates technological innovation, supports local project developers and educational institutions, and creates new opportunities for local companies and employment, fostering a knowledge-based economy.
German Support and Chile’s Green Future
This collaboration showcases the German government’s support for decarbonization and sustainable fuel promotion. It positions Chile at the forefront of green hydrogen and new energy carrier developments, driving the production of new fuels, boosting the local economy, and advancing a greener future.
The INERATEC and GIZ partnership paves the way for Chile’s sustainable energy production and reduced carbon emissions, establishing the country as a global leader in e-fuel production and creating a resilient economy.
Do you want to find out more about hydrogen projects in Chile? You can read our latest 2 articles about the event here and there.
