French Guiana

Green Hydrogen Vision

French Guiana envisions green hydrogen as a key enabler in its transition to a sustainable energy future, leveraging its rich renewable energy potential, including solar and hydropower. The region aims to integrate green hydrogen into its energy system to decarbonize industries, transportation, and power generation, while addressing energy security challenges as an isolated grid in South America. By fostering innovation, developing infrastructure, and encouraging public-private partnerships, French Guiana seeks to position itself as a leader in green hydrogen production and use, contributing to regional sustainability efforts and advancing global climate goals. 

National Strategy

French Guiana does not currently have a dedicated green hydrogen strategy.   

Capacity Targets

No known targets declared yet.  

Impact Targets

No impact targets stated yet. 

Policy and Project Spotlight

1. In 2021, Meridiam began constructing the world’s largest hydrogen power plant in Mana, French Guiana. With 128MWh of stored energy, this project is the biggest globally for storing intermittent renewable energy. The plant will produce 100% renewable electricity from the sun and water, supplying 10,000 homes in Western Guyana at a lower cost than diesel plants. It aims to provide uninterrupted electricity without greenhouse gases, avoiding 39,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually. Operating autonomously, it will secure electricity for the Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni basin during electrical network failures. Electricity will come from a photovoltaic park, coupled with long-term hydrogen and short-term battery storage, injected into the Guyanese grid under a 25-year contract with EDF. Construction began on September 30, while commissioning was set for April 2024. The project involves a total investment of 170 million euros, expected to generate around 17 million euros for local businesses and create about 20 permanent jobs in Western Guyana, alongside many temporary jobs during construction. 

2. EKPO has provided fuel cell stacks for the HYGUANE project, which is focused on stationary power generation at Europe's Spaceport. 

Financing

No known investments yet.  

Government Green Hydrogen Lead

Ministry of Ecological Transition, Energy, Climate and Risk Prevention