The European Commission and the Uruguayan government have formalized a declaration of intent, pledging a EUR 2 million (USD 2.2 million) non-reimbursable contribution to support Uruguay's green hydrogen roadmap. The funding, provided through the EU's Euroclima programme, is aimed at enhancing the capacity needed for green hydrogen production, adapting regulatory frameworks, and implementing a public awareness campaign.
The agreement was announced during the Fifth European Investment Forum on Energy in Uruguay, attended by EU Commissioner for Energy Kadri Simson, Uruguay's Minister of Industry, Energy, and Mining Elisa Facio, and EU Ambassador to Uruguay Paolo Berizzi, among others.
In her keynote address, Simson highlighted energy cooperation and Uruguay's potential as a green hydrogen producer and exporter. She noted the EU's commitment to supporting partners like Uruguay in their transitions to clean energy and sustainable fuels. “The EU seeks partners in reliable countries like Uruguay—partners who share the same values as us, the same trust in democracy, rule of law and multilateralism,” Simson stated.
Minister Facio emphasized the country's significant progress in renewable energy, with its share in the total power mix rising to 99% over the past year. This transition positions Uruguay for its second energy transformation. “The production of clean hydrogen is a great opportunity for the country,” she remarked.
According to the green hydrogen roadmap, the Uruguayan government anticipates the new industry will attract cumulative investments of USD 18 billion (EUR 16.3 billion) and create over 30,000 jobs by 2040. Currently, there are four green hydrogen projects in development in Uruguay, including two pilot projects and two focused on exports. The pilot projects are expected to commence production by the end of 2025, while the first phase of the export-oriented projects is set to begin in 2029.
Facio added that the government is now working on a national plan for infrastructure and logistics to support the production and transport of green hydrogen.
