The World Bank's Board of Directors has approved a new operation to support the green hydrogen strategy of the Pecém Industrial and Port Complex Company (CIPP) and the Government of Ceará. This initiative aims to enable clean hydrogen production in the Complex of Pecém, positioning Ceará at the forefront of the global clean energy transition while promoting jobs, inclusion, and long-term climate resilience.
Located in Northeastern Brazil, CIPP is a major industrial and logistics hub poised to develop a hydrogen hub in the country. It is strategically supported by both state and federal governments to drive an energy transition.
The project will finance critical infrastructure to support private investment in clean hydrogen production. It incorporates lessons from World Bank-supported hydrogen initiatives in Chile and India. The initiative will contribute to reducing carbon emissions, advancing Brazil’s clean energy goals, and creating opportunities for local stakeholders associated with Brazil's energy sector.
“This support from the World Bank represents a historic milestone for the Pecém Complex and for Ceará," stated Max Quintino, president of the Pecém Complex. "We are making concrete progress in consolidating the green hydrogen hub."
“Ceará is embracing the future by investing in green hydrogen,” said Jorge Coarasa Bustamante, World Bank Operations Manager for Brazil. “This program helps expand job opportunities and promotes clean growth.”
The project aligns with Brazil’s climate agenda, supporting its Nationally Determined Contribution, National Hydrogen Program, and New Brazil Industry Policy. Despite being one of Brazil’s poorest states, Ceará is emerging as a key player in this sector.
The World Bank’s financial support totals US$134 million through an Investment Project Financing instrument. This includes a US$90 million IBRD loan, a US$9 million grant from the IBRD Surplus-Funded Livable Planet Fund grant, a US$33.5 million CIF loan under the Renewable Energy Integration Program, and a US$1.5 million CIF REI grant.