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In a meeting with Governor Elmano de Freitas, executives from FRV, part of the Jameel Energy group, announced their ambitious green hydrogen (H2V) production project in the Pecém Industrial and Port Complex (CIPP). Named H2 Cumbuco, the project focuses on producing green ammonia for export, targeting European and Asian markets.
FRV’s project involves a significant investment of approximately 27 billion reais (5 billion dollars) and is expected to generate around 1,500 jobs during construction and over 200 during its operation. The project will unfold in two phases with a total production capacity of 2 GW.
Project Phases and Production Capacity
The first phase will involve the installation of 500 MW of electrolyzers, aimed at producing 400,000 tons of ammonia annually, with an investment of 7 billion reais. The second phase will expand the capacity by adding 1.5 GW of electrolyzers, increasing production by 1.2 million tons to a total of 1.6 million tons per year. This phase will require an additional 20 billion reais investment.
Construction and Operation Timeline
Manuel Pavon, General Director of FRV South America, outlined the project’s timeline: “Construction is expected to begin in 2027 and will take between two and three years. Operations should commence around 2029 or 2030.” Pavon also highlighted the strategic advantage of the Port of Pecém’s location in relation to the US and Europe.
Sustainability and Regulatory Compliance
The project will adhere to stringent European regulations and aims to maintain a competitive cost structure while emphasizing sustainability. It will utilize renewable energy and treated urban wastewater, promoting a circular economy. FRV has signed a memorandum of understanding with Utilitas Pecém, a joint initiative of the Ceará Water and Sewer Company (Cagece) and PB Construções, to provide sustainable solutions in infrastructure and basic sanitation.
Economic and Social Impact
Cagece President Neuri Freitas noted the importance of water reuse, stating, “This will generate a circular economy without competing with human water supply. Extensive negotiations preceded this agreement.” Governor Elmano de Freitas emphasized the project’s significance for Ceará’s development: “The Port of Pecém is a wealth hub. We aim for growth that benefits the people of Ceará as much as it does the port. The FRV project is an exciting and innovative venture.”
Broader Context
FRV is one of six companies with pre-contracts for green hydrogen production in Ceará, alongside AES, Casa dos Ventos, Fortescue, Cactus, and Voltalia. Additionally, 37 memoranda of understanding have been signed with various Brazilian and international companies, underscoring the state’s commitment to sustainable industrial growth. |
