The World Bank has approved USD 134 million in financing to support the green hydrogen strategy of Brazil’s Pecém Industrial and Port Complex and the Government of Ceará, positioning the region as a frontrunner in the global clean energy transition.
July 15, 2025. By Mrinmoy Dey
The World Bank Board of Directors has approved a new operation to support the green hydrogen strategy of Companhia de Desenvolvimento do Complexo Industrial e Portuário do Pecém (Pecém Industrial and Port Complex Company – CIPP) and the Government of Ceará.
The World Bank’s financial support is provided through an Investment Project Financing (IPF) instrument. The total financing amounts to USD 134 million, including USD 90 million of IBRD loan, USD 9 million grant from the IBRD Surplus-Funded Livable Planet Fund grant, USD 33.5 million of Climate Investment Funds (CIF) loan under the Renewable Energy Integration (REI) Program, and USD 1.5 million of CIF REI grant.
By enabling clean hydrogen production in the Complex of Pecém, this initiative places the Brazilian state at the forefront of the global clean energy transition, while also promoting jobs, inclusion, and long-term climate resilience.
Located in the state of Ceará, in Northeastern Brazil, CIPP is a major industrial and logistics hub and a leading location for the development of a hydrogen hub in the country. It is strategically positioned to drive an energy transition, supported by both the State and Federal Government.
The project finances critical infrastructure to support private investment in clean hydrogen and derivatives production and draws on global best practices and incorporates lessons from World Bank-supported hydrogen initiatives in Chile and India. It will contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions and advancing Brazil’s and the region’s clean energy goals and create enabling conditions for local and national stakeholders associated to Brazil’s energy sector, including private sector investors, local industry, and the wider community through economic opportunities and climate benefits.
“This support from the World Bank represents a historic milestone for the Pecém Complex and for Ceará. We are making concrete progress in consolidating the green hydrogen hub, which positions Brazil as a leader in the global energy transition. This initiative strengthens our infrastructure, attracts investment, and creates real opportunities for the people of Ceará,” stated Max Quintino, President of the Pecém Complex.
Jorge Coarasa Bustamante, World Bank Operations Manager for Brazil remarked, “Ceará is embracing the future by investing in green hydrogen and building the policy foundations for a more sustainable, competitive, and inclusive economy. This program helps expand job opportunities and promotes clean growth, especially in regions historically left behind.”
The proposed project supports Brazil’s climate agenda, aligning with its updated Nationally Determined Contribution, the National Hydrogen Program, and the New Brazil Industry Policy. It is also consistent with Ceará’s ‘Plano Verde’ and the broader federal and state efforts to promote a clean energy transition that fosters economic and social development through the creation of a clean hydrogen industry.
Despite being one of Brazil’s poorest states, Ceará is emerging as a key player in this sector, which is essential for decarbonising segments such as industry and transport. The project leverages the country’s renewable energy potential and the strategic infrastructure of the CIPP to support this transition.
