Advancements in the country's first hydrogen-powered vessels project are presented to the Brazilian government.

Representatives from Itaipu Parquetec and Grupo Náutica presented to the Vice President of Brazil and Minister of Development, Industry, Trade, and Services, Geraldo Alckmin, the progress of the JAQ Green Hydrogen project, which aims to revolutionize Brazilian navigation. The initiative focuses on implementing two maritime and river vessels powered by green hydrogen, promoting sustainable navigation practices and contributing to carbon emission reductions.

During the presentation, Geraldo Alckmin was able to follow the construction progress of the Explorer H1 vessel, which is scheduled to be launched at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém (PA) in November this year. The boat, which will be the project’s first major achievement, is 36 meters long and powered by a hydro-jet system that allows it to navigate in very shallow waters, making it a specially adapted support boat for expeditions. It is currently located at the INACE Shipyard in Fortaleza, CE.

Following the presentation of the Explorer H1, the second phase will begin with the Explorer H2 vessel, further strengthening the initiative’s position as a global model for sustainable navigation. The Explorer H2, currently located at the Arpoador Shipyard in Guarujá, SP, is 50 meters long and was designed to support diving operations and the collection of hydrographic and oceanographic data.

The meeting, held last Friday (24) in São Paulo, was attended by Itaipu Parquetec’s Managing Director, Professor Irineu Colombo; Grupo Náutica’s Director, Ernani Paciornik; Itaipu Parquetec’s Director of Business and Entrepreneurship, Eduardo de Miranda; CEO of Ideia Research Institute and JAQ Green Hydrogen, Cila Schulman; President of the Brazilian Association of Boat Builders and their Implements (ACOBAR), Eduardo Colunna; and the COO of the JAQ project, Louise Pimentel.

According to Professor Irineu Colombo, the project is a great example of how technology can be used to promote sustainability and drive the country’s energy transition. “We are contributing all the necessary green hydrogen technology for engine propulsion and the hospitality infrastructure of both vessels, which can serve as a global example, placing Brazil at the forefront of the nautical sector’s decarbonization,” stated Itaipu Parquetec’s Managing Director.

“The presence of the Explorer H1 vessel at COP30 will be a symbol of Brazil’s commitment to the energy transition,” said Ernani Paciornik, adding that the JAQ Green Hydrogen project is the result of Grupo Náutica’s 43-year history in the sector and its dedication to sustainability. “Carrying out this project with such a qualified partner as Itaipu Parquetec gives us confidence that we are on the right path,” he concluded.