The Net-Zero Circle

Pioneering the Future of Green Hydrogen: An Interview with Grace Keller

In a rapidly transforming energy landscape, hydrogen stands out as a game-changer, especially as countries and companies across the globe seek sustainable solutions for a low-carbon future. We spoke with Grace Keller, Director-Founder of H2News, board member of H2 Chile, and member of Women in Green Hydrogen, to understand her role in elevating green hydrogen’s profile, particularly in Chile, and H2News' commitment to fostering public awareness, collaboration, and diversity in the sector.

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What have been some of the most significant stories or developments in the hydrogen sector that H2News has covered, and why were they particularly impactful?

Grace: "At H2News, we have closely followed landmark projects and policy milestones that position hydrogen as a cornerstone of the global energy transition. Covering Chile's National Green Hydrogen Strategy and the subsequent international partnerships has been particularly impactful. These stories have provided insight into how the government and industry aim to make Chile a global hydrogen hub. Additionally, major developments such as advancements in hydrogen infrastructure and electrolyzer capacity in Latin America, along with key partnerships with Europe and Asia, have helped bring visibility to the transformative potential of hydrogen. These stories are impactful because they reflect the ambition and scalability of hydrogen, demonstrating its real-world potential to enable sustainable energy solutions on a global scale."

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With hydrogen becoming a key player in the global energy transition, how do you see the role of media, like H2News, in shaping public opinion and promoting awareness of hydrogen technologies?

"Media outlets like H2News play a pivotal role in bridging the knowledge gap on hydrogen by making complex technological developments accessible and relevant. As hydrogen’s prominence grows, public understanding becomes essential for fostering social acceptance and investment interest. H2News contributes by highlighting the benefits, applications, and environmental impacts of hydrogen technologies, which helps demystify hydrogen for both the general public and stakeholders. Additionally, our stories emphasize economic opportunities, job creation, and the decarbonization potential that hydrogen offers. By shaping public opinion, H2News aims to create a supportive ecosystem for hydrogen innovations to flourish."

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What challenges does Chile face in positioning itself as a leader in green hydrogen, and how are you addressing these challenges?

"Chile faces several challenges in its journey to become a green hydrogen leader. A key hurdle is scaling up infrastructure and securing sustained investment in technology and talent. Navigating policy and regulatory complexities also remains a challenge, as a clear, stable framework is essential for long-term investment. The Chilean Hydrogen Association, H2 Chile, addresses these challenges by advocating for policies that support investment incentives and fostering partnerships that encourage infrastructure development. They work to elevate Chile’s competitive advantages, such as our high solar and wind potential, to attract international interest. By aligning public and private sector efforts, H2 Chile strives to position the country as a global leader in green hydrogen."

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How does H2News collaborate with international partners to drive innovation and investment in the hydrogen sector?

"H2News collaborates internationally through strategic alliances with key players in the hydrogen industry. H2 Chile is actively engaged in knowledge-sharing initiatives, collaborative research, and development projects aimed at advancing green hydrogen production and storage technologies. Partnerships with entities in Europe, Asia, and the United States allow H2 Chile to gain insights into global best practices and regulatory frameworks that can be adapted locally. These collaborations are instrumental in attracting foreign direct investment and innovation to Chile, positioning it as a prime destination for green hydrogen initiatives and supporting the country’s ambition to lead in the global hydrogen economy."

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As a member of Women in Green Hydrogen, how do you see the role of women evolving in the hydrogen and broader renewable energy sectors?

"The role of women in the energy sector is increasingly significant, driven by the recognition that diversity is a catalyst for innovation and progress. However, women still face notable challenges in this space. According to the International Energy Agency, women represent only 22% of the workforce in the energy sector—a low figure compared to other industries. Structural barriers and historical male dominance in the field contribute to the limited representation of women in technical and leadership roles. Nevertheless, global initiatives like Women in Green Hydrogen are fostering inclusion and encouraging greater female participation, especially in emerging fields like renewable energy and green hydrogen. In Chile, initiatives such as Energía + Mujeres and the Women in Energy Chile Association are actively working to create more inclusive environments, encouraging young women to pursue careers in energy. This growing presence not only drives progress toward gender equity but also enriches the sector's approach to sustainability and innovation."

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What have been the most valuable lessons you’ve learned from your career in green hydrogen, and how have these shaped your approach to leadership and innovation?

"One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of adaptability and resilience in an emerging industry. The hydrogen sector evolves rapidly, requiring leaders to stay flexible while maintaining a clear vision for the future. This experience has taught me to prioritize long-term sustainability over short-term gains, focusing on building solid partnerships and fostering a collaborative culture. Additionally, effective leadership in green hydrogen isn’t just about technical expertise—it involves inspiring stakeholders with the environmental and economic potential of hydrogen. This approach has guided my commitment to transparent communication, inclusivity, and promoting innovative solutions that can drive meaningful change."

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Looking ahead, what do you believe will be the most significant developments in Chile’s green hydrogen market, and how do you plan to position H2News to contribute to and lead those changes?

"Chile’s green hydrogen market is on the cusp of major advancements, particularly in export infrastructure, large-scale production, and integration with other renewable energy sources. We anticipate cost reductions for electrolyzers and increased foreign investment, which will enhance Chile's competitiveness globally. Chile remains committed to these developments by promoting policies and partnerships that advance infrastructure and attract investment. H2News will continue to provide in-depth coverage of these changes, ensuring stakeholders are well-informed about Chile's progress in the green hydrogen sector."

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With her unique perspective and roles at H2News, H2 Chile, and Women in Green Hydrogen, Grace Keller embodies a forward-thinking approach in the green hydrogen sector. Her work highlights the pivotal role that informed media, strategic collaboration, and inclusive leadership play in building a sustainable energy future. As Chile continues its journey to becoming a global hydrogen powerhouse, Keller’s vision and commitment to innovation ensure that H2News will remain at the forefront of this transformative industry, connecting local efforts to a broader international stage

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November 13, 2024

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Interview with Grace Keller : Director / Founder of H2News, member of the Board in H2 Chile and Member of Women in Green Hydrogen

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Interview with Grace Keller : Director / Founder of H2News, member of the Board in H2 Chile and Member of Women in Green Hydrogen

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