Energy Sovereignty: Hydrogen as a new pillar for sovereignty

In times of war, what is at stake is not just a nation's war power, but its ability to ‘stand on its own two feet’ even when global chains collapse.

The recent escalation between Israel, Iran and the US rekindles this warning: Brazil, highly dependent on imported fuels and fertilizers, remains vulnerable. And it is precisely here that hydrogen is emerging not only as the fuel of the future - but as a national security strategy today.

We live in the contradiction of being an agricultural and energy powerhouse that nevertheless imports 80% of the fertilizers it uses and billions of dollars worth of diesel every year. Dependence on volatile markets that are highly exposed to conflict, such as Russia and Iran, puts our industry, transportation and agriculture at high risk with each new international conflict. This is no longer a choice, but a necessity - from a sustainable perspective, from the environment to the economy, in order to ensure that Brazil doesn't grind to a halt.

Hydrogen offers a great prospect and solution. By investing in hydrogen from our clean and renewable matrix, we open the way to energy independence, a reduction in logistical risks and even a return to national fertilizer production.

The tests in Guarulhos and Macaé, the hybrid thermal plants and the green ammonia projects in Uberaba, as well as the vast research that is being carried out and promoted, are signs of a new sector that is being born not as a substitute for oil, but as a pillar of sovereignty. More than decarbonizing, it's guaranteeing long-term stability.

So it's time to see hydrogen not just as a new climate solution, but as a strategic asset. Integrated with our ethanol, biogas, wind and solar, it allows us to build something that goes beyond sustainability: resilience.

And those who plant sovereignty today, i.e. the ability to remain independent, safe and functional, will reap leadership tomorrow.