Petrobras announced the development of its first pilot plant for the production of renewable hydrogen, an investment of R$90 million, to be implemented at the Vale do Açu Thermoelectric Plant, located in Alto do Rodrigues, in Rio Grande do Norte . This project, in partnership with the Senai Institute for Innovation in Renewable Energy (Senai ISI-ER) and executed by WEG, marks a significant step for the state-owned company in the search for innovative and sustainable solutions in the energy sector. Operations are scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2026, at which point Petrobras will join the select group of companies with the capacity to generate renewable hydrogen through electrolysis powered by solar energy.
This low-carbon hydrogen will be produced by separating water molecules, a process that involves passing an electric current to generate hydrogen and oxygen from electrolysis, using a renewable source, such as solar energy. According to Maurício Tolmasquim, Director of Energy Transition and Sustainability at Petrobras, the project is part of the company's decarbonization strategy, exploring sustainable resources and reinforcing the commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Brazil.
Expansion of Energy Capacity and Testing with Natural Gas
To support the demands of the electrolysis plant, the Alto Rodrigues Solar Power Plant will be expanded from its original capacity of 1.1 MWp to 2.5 MWp . This increase will ensure that the pilot unit can operate continuously, using a 2 MW electrolyzer designed to explore different operating modes, taking advantage of the connection to the electricity distribution grid and an energy storage system already existing at the unit.
The hydrogen generated at this plant will not only be studied for energy production, but will also be used for tests involving its mixture with natural gas, a pioneering initiative in Brazil. In an experimental scenario, Petrobras intends to use renewable hydrogen mixed with natural gas to power microturbines, enabling the performance and durability of these equipment to be tested. This detailed study aims to provide valuable insights into the technical and structural impacts of this combination, enabling the large-scale and safe use of hydrogen.
Photo: Petrobras Agency
The Role of Renewable Hydrogen in the Brazilian Energy Matrix
By investing in this pilot plant, Petrobras demonstrates its commitment to the development of renewable hydrogen as a key element in the diversification of Brazil's energy matrix and in advancing its own energy transition policy. According to Tolmasquim, this pioneering initiative represents "the first step towards future commercial initiatives in the sustainable hydrogen segment" , aligning Petrobras with global decarbonization practices.
This plant also serves as a model of innovation for other companies and institutions interested in the potential of renewable hydrogen in Brazil. In addition, the project highlights the relevance of Rio Grande do Norte as a promising hub for renewable energy, reinforcing national competitiveness in the sector. As renewable hydrogen production expands and solidifies in the country, Petrobras strengthens its position in a market increasingly guided by sustainability and energy efficiency.
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