A pilot project in Chile’s Coquimbo region is injecting green hydrogen into the natural gas distribution network that supplies La Serena and Coquimbo, marking what regional authorities describe as the first residential hydrogen‑blending scheme in South America.

The system operated by gas distributor GasValpo currently mixes 10% green hydrogen with 90% natural gas, with plans to raise the share to 15% in 2026 and, over the long term, to 20%.

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The project began with a 3.5% hydrogen blend, rising to 5% after an on‑site electrolyser was installed to produce hydrogen from renewable power. At a 20% blend, authorities estimate the initiative could cut around 340t of CO₂ emissions per year.

The University of La Serena’s engineering faculty is monitoring the system for material compatibility with existing gas networks and household appliances, as well as for combustion quality and emissions performance.

GasValpo reports that the hydrogen blending has shown no visible effects for end users. Regional authorities describe the pilot as a key step in Chile’s broader green hydrogen strategy, leveraging the Coquimbo region’s strong renewable energy potential and helping to reduce reliance on imported fossil gas, while stabilising heating fuel costs.