Colombia looking to launch a road map for hydrogen

Colombia will launch plans to develop the production and use of hydrogen as a long-term clean energy source in September, said the Minister of Mines and Energy, who added that the country will publish a road map to establish the production of the gas over 30 years.

Diego Mesa was speaking to Reuters in an interview, in which he said, that the plan will receive high investment. He said that the country will provide incentives, including tax deductions, in hope it encourages the participation of the private sector.

"Colombia has all the resources to be a regional and world leader for the production of hydrogen," Mesa said. He added that pilot projects for the production and usage of hydrogen will begin in 2022.

Colombia’s income still depends on the production of oil and gas, and also coal. Mesa told Reuters, he was confident about Colombia's 2021 oil and gas auction - in which some 32 blocks will be offered.

"We expect to see between 10 and 15 blocks assigned," he said.