Brazil advances hydrogen and biomethane projects for low‑carbon transport

Brazil is testing new low‑carbon fuel technologies for both maritime and road transport. The Grupo Náutica project JAQ Hidrogênio Verde, in partnership with Chinese firm GWM Hydrogen‑FTXT, has begun commissioning the 36‑metre experimental vessel JAQ H1 in Itajaí, Santa Catarina. The floating platform will be the first in the country to receive hydrogen fuel, activate fuel‑cell propulsion and power all onboard hotel loads, serving as a research and education platform rather than a commercial ship.

At the same time, gas‑equipment maker MAT Equipamentos, based in Jundiaí, São Paulo, forecasts a three‑fold increase in revenue by 2027 as it expands storage and compression systems for biomethane – a renewable gas that cuts greenhouse‑gas emissions by up to 95% and is being promoted for heavy‑duty trucks. Director of commercial Jorge Mathuiy said the company, a family‑owned national business, is focusing on this market to help replace diesel‑dominated fleets.

Both initiatives illustrate Brazil’s push to develop infrastructure and technology for cleaner fuel use in transport, despite ongoing challenges in scaling hydrogen and biomethane supply chains.