Uruguay took a significant step in its transition towards clean energy with the presentation of the Kahirós project, the first green hydrogen plant to be installed in Fray Bentos . The initiative, which has an investment of USD 38,600,000, was presented by the Minister of Industry, Energy and Mining, Elisa Facio, at an event held on October 30 at LATU.
The plant will begin producing green hydrogen from 2026 , using solar energy generated by 8,000 panels and a 2 MW electrolyzer that will allow the separation of hydrogen from oxygen. The hydrogen produced will supply heavy-duty trucks in the logistics-forestry chain, thus integrating sustainable transport with a range of more than 700 kilometers per charge.
Uruguay inaugurates its first hydrogen plant
The Kahirós project is aligned with the Uruguayan government’s strategy to move towards a second energy transition. This stage seeks to decarbonize sectors that are difficult to electrify, such as heavy-duty transport. In addition, priority is given to the creation of quality jobs in the interior of the country and environmental sustainability, with a firm commitment to reducing CO₂ emissions .
The Santander Group is financially supporting the initiative, while Montes del Plata will be one of the main beneficiaries of the hydrogen produced, integrating it into its fleet of state-of-the-art trucks. The project partners include Fidocar, specialised in sustainable mobility, and Ventus, dedicated to renewable energies .
Minister Facio highlighted the importance of the project for the hydrogen economy in Uruguay, mentioning that the plant will allow a saving of 870 tons of CO₂ emissions per year . In addition, the water consumption, estimated at 4,200 liters per day, will be returned to the environment in the form of steam, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
This is a collective challenge for Uruguay to lead responsibly, generating economic development and caring for our natural environment.
Facio stressed.
Speech by Minister Elisa Facio. Source: Ministry of Industry, Energy and Mining of Uruguay
Follow us on social media and don’t miss any of our posts!
YouTube LinkedIn Facebook Instagram X TikTok
Source and photo: Ministry of Industry, Energy and Mining of Uruguay