Uruguay energy storage vehicle design

In Uruguay, investors are now also able to receive certification that their hydrogen was produced with renewable energy sources. In January, UTE presented a certification system based on blockchain technology that guarantees the origin of the energy generated.

Transport accounts for two thirds of Uruguay's oil consumption. The government's targets for the “second energy transformation” focus on the introduction of green hydrogen for long-distance heavy transport or for export, as well as the promotion of electric mobility.

Uruguay's electric vehicle fleet currently consists of 35 public buses in Montevideo and Canelones and one private bus, 80 taxis and other ride-hailing vehicles, 297 utility vehicles, 41 trucks and 500 sports utility vehicles (SUVs) and pick-up cars of private individuals, according to MIEM from February.

Omar Paganini, Uruguay's Minister of Industry, Energy and Mining (MIEM) told Diálogo Chino that having a functioning green hydrogen energy pilot in the country by 2025 – the end of his government's term – would be considered satisfactory progress.

Uruguay can already meet its energy demand with domestic generation, and even has annual surpluses that it exports. In 2021, Uruguay exported 2,200 megawatt-hours (MWh) to Brazil and 627 MWh to Argentina, according to MIEM data.

In 2021, EVs accounted for 1.2% of vehicle sales in the country, up from 0.5% in 2020. “It could double every year,” Guelfi said, adding that BYD now competes with several European brands in Uruguay. “If policies and incentives are maintained, supply continues to increase and a network of fast chargers is installed, the market could reach 3% soon.”