CERE Offers Course on Green Hydrogen and Its Derivatives
Following a successful application process, with over 200 students, professionals, technicians, and entrepreneurs from the Magallanes Region applying, a total of 51 selected participants will take this free course. The program will allow them to understand the theoretical foundations of H2V production, its value chain, derivatives, and applications in entrepreneurship and innovation.
The course is made possible through a collaboration between the University of Magallanes, the University of Talca (UTalca), Grupo Singular, the Pico Truncado Experimental H2V Plant and the Instituto Superior de Enseñanza Técnica (INSET) in Argentina, as well as the Center for Energy, Environmental, and Technological Research (CIEMAT) in Spain.
The launch took place at the Ernesto Livacic auditorium of the university, broadcasted by UMAGTV, and attended by regional authorities, faculty members, and course participants. The Pro-Rector of the University of Magallanes, Mariela Alarcón, commented, “Over the years, we have witnessed an impressive evolution, from our early steps with fossil fuels to the progressive adoption of renewable energies. This trajectory is not only a testament to our commitment to innovation and progress but also to our adaptability in facing the challenges ahead.”
Óscar Strauch, Deputy Director of CORFO Magallanes, highlighted the efforts of regional teams from academia, the public sector, and private industry in developing this program. “This is what we aim for with the Viraliza programs—the development of human capital through partnerships, training, and specialization. Our institution is committed to sustainable productive development, and we want those participating in this course to apply this knowledge to entrepreneurship and to innovate in existing and future companies in this new industry.”
Pedro Alberti, Acting Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Architecture at UMAG, emphasized, “We are committed to establishing the best partnerships for the development of local capabilities. Our students learn directly from project developers, allowing them to acquire relevant, up-to-date, and world-class knowledge.”
The academic authority also announced that this Viraliza course will serve as the foundation for a Diploma in Green Hydrogen, available to all selected participants and applicants. The program will delve deeper into industry-specific topics, paying special attention to the unique characteristics of the Magallanes Region. The diploma will soon be added to the regular catalog of professional development courses offered by the University of Magallanes.
The inaugural lecture was delivered by the director of CERE-UMAG, Dr. Humberto Vidal, who presented on the topic “H2V in Chile: Advantages, Challenges, and New Opportunities.” Additionally, the event featured an online presentation by Dr. José María Sánchez, head of the Combustion and Gasification Division and responsible for the Sustainable Thermochemical Valorization Unit at the Department of Energy at CIEMAT, and a lecture titled “Governing Energy Transitions: Germany and International Cooperations” by Dr. Johanna Höehl from Heidelberg University.