AES Andes submits EIA for industrial-scale hydrogen project in Chile

Energy company AES Andes has submitted an environmental impact assessment (EIA) to Chilean permitting authorities for a proposed industrial-scale green hydrogen project called Inna.

According to AES, the project, which is in early-stage development, could include a variety of solutions, including green hydrogen for export or domestic consumption, aligned with Chile’s National Green Hydrogen Strategy. Moreover, it could include the production of ammonia, as well as deploying solar, wind and battery storage to support the country’s electricity needs.

Javier Dib, AES Chile’s Market Business Leader, said: “While this project is in early-stage development, and we have yet to make an investment decision, as part of the mandatory process to obtain the environmental permits, this EIA filing is an important step for the project to ensure its viability.”

“AES Andes is dedicated to accelerating the future of energy, creating opportunities that will diversify Chile’s energy mix, and supporting the country’s clean energy goals. As with any project, our partnership with local communities and stakeholders is a top priority, ensuring we are supporting local economic development, while maintaining the highest environmental and safety standards.”

In support of this potential project, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed between AES Andes and Samsung C&T, a Korean company with experience in energy and construction. As disclosed, the two parties will evaluate the joint development of the project, focusing on opportunities to produce green hydrogen for domestic consumption or export to international markets.

Luis Sarrás, AES’ Vice President of International Green Hydrogen, stated: “AES Andes has carried out dedicated and extensive community and stakeholder engagement work in this region previously and has paid special attention to the Changos communities present in the area. We will maintain this commitment as we explore this project further.”

To note, AES Andes operates 5,657 MW in South America and has a number of renewable energy projects in development. Its portfolio includes hydroelectric, wind, solar, energy storage, natural gas and coal plants. In Chile, the company and its subsidiaries own and operate 3,885 MW.