renewable energies

The global change of the energy matrix gained momentum in the 2010s thanks to technological advances for electricity generation with renewable energies; international agreements in favor of the environment; and climate change.

Latin American countries are in the process of changing the global energy matrix and have had several advances. The COVID-19 pandemic paralyzed the world and the economy. Latin America was no exception and it seems that this may have slowed down renewable energies.

The energy transition in Latin America is underway. Government incentives and continued Chinese investments and loans will be key to its development.

An increase in demand and use of land passenger transport has been observed. Its electrification is considered a plus for the environment and the economy. However, there is a debate about whether to take advantage of the lithium present on the ground or to invest in hydrogen production.

What is the best alternative in order to protect the environment and slow down climate change? Hydrogen is the most abundant and lightest element on Earth, but its molecule does not occur naturally in isolation. Lithium, different from H2, can be found in specific deposits. The most important is the "Lithium Triangle".

At present, there is no perfect energy source. Environmentally, the best alternative is H2 from water, which does not generate any pollutant after combustion. Its problem is that it is not yet economically or energetically viable.