Power-to-X Colombia 2.0 – A Study within the CatalHyst Project

The Power-to-X Colombia 2.0 project deepens the analysis of the potential for the production and use of sustainable energy sources in Colombia identified in the previous Power-to-X Colombia project. These are also being expanded with a focus on innovative hybrid concepts. To this end, technical concepts for hybrid first-mover projects are being developed that combine biomass residues with Power-to-X technologies. This reduces production costs and enables more efficient use of resources. Under the leadership of Fraunhofer ISE and with the support of partners such as the Asociación Nacional de Empresarios de Colombia (ANDI) and the Federation of German Industries (BDI), the project promotes the establishment of regional hydrogen hubs, opens up export opportunities, and drives forward the green transformation. 

Initial Situation

Colombia is entering a decisive phase in its hydrogen ramp-up. With its abundant renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydro power, as well as biogenic residues, the country offers ideal conditions for the production of sustainable hydrogen and its derivatives such as ammonia, methanol, and synthetic fuels. The national hydrogen roadmap is ambitious, aiming for an installed electrolysis capacity of 1–3 GW by 2030. However, clear technical approaches, regulatory frameworks, and viable pilot projects are needed to achieve these goals. The project addresses these challenges with innovative approaches and practical solutions.

Objective

The Power-to-X Colombia 2.0 project aims to advance the hydrogen economy in Colombia through innovative approaches. The goal is to develop hybrid concepts that combine biomass residues with Power-to-X technologies in order to reduce production costs and use resources more efficiently. The goal is to identify suitable locations for first-mover projects, promote regional hydrogen hubs, and develop export opportunities for the focus regions of Valle del Cauca, Bolívar, and Atlántico. In the long term, Colombia is to be established as a key player in the global hydrogen economy and the country's green transformation accelerated.

Approach

Hydrogen project landscape: Identification, mapping, and analysis of hydrogen projects in various stages of development

Regulatory framework: Evaluation of regulations in the EU and Colombia to identify regulatory sweet spots

GIS-based mapping: Site identification through analysis of renewable energy potential, availability of biogenic gases and biomass residues, existing infrastructure, and product consumers

Project evaluation tool: Development of an Excel-based multi-criteria decision tool for evaluating hydrogen projects based on probability and suitability scores

Implementation of practical technical concepts: Development of site-specific technical concepts for first-mover projects in the focus regions 

Result

The Power-to-X Colombia 2.0 project identified and analyzed 71 hydrogen projects in Colombia in order to draw conclusions about the ramp-up of hydrogen production. GIS-based mapping was used to determine optimal locations based on renewable energy potential, biomass residues, infrastructure, and product consumers. An Excel-based multi-criteria decision-making tool was developed that enables projects to be systematically evaluated and realistic ramp-up scenarios to be created. In addition, hybrid technical concepts for first-mover projects were developed in the focus regions of Valle del Cauca, Bolívar, and Atlántico. These are intended to help reduce production costs, enable more efficient use of resources, and accelerate the ramp-up of hydrogen.

The “Power-to-X Colombia 2.0” project is funded by The Voice of German Industry (BDI).