A DECARBONIZATION STRATEGY FOR PRESERVING THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS WITH GREEN HYDROGEN IN MARITIME TRANSPORTATION: EMPOWERING A SUSTAINABLE AND INCLUSIVE GREEN TOURISM

This paper presents a proposal for implementing green hydrogen as a key component in decarbonizing maritime transportation in the Galapagos Islands. The objective is to transition interisland transportation for tourists using fuel-cell-powered ferries. Leveraging renewable energy sources, particularly wind and solar, as well as a mix of them, an integrated techno-economic analysis of the system is presented for producing, storing, and utilizing green hydrogen fuel. The approach addresses the unique challenges of the remote islands, focusing on the environmental impact and local sources of solar radiation and wind speeds in the vicinity of Baltra Island. The paper discusses a construction plan for a hydrogen plant capable of producing about 100 kg of hydrogen per day, utilizing AEM (anion-exchange membrane) modular electrolyzers for production and batteries and hydrogen tanks for storage. The feasibility and costs of three project scenarios (wind, solar, and hybrid) regarding energy coverage throughout the year, excess energy production fed to the grid, and cost sensitivity analyses of the energy market are thoroughly examined. This work contributes to the broader goal of achieving NetZero carbon for the Galapagos and preserving the pristine ecosystems of this UNESCO World Heritage site.