Patentometric and Competitiveness Analysis of Renewable Hydrogen From Algae: Alternative Aimed At Energy Security

Objective: The main objective of this article is to diagnose the state-of-the-art technology for hydrogen (H2) production from algae to assess competitiveness in the renewable fuels market. Theoretical Framework: Actions to decarbonize the energy matrix are part of the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement to control climate change, without negatively impacting energy security. H2 has become one of the competitive energy sources for decarbonization actions and one of the ways to control the increase in global temperature. Algae are potential renewable sources of competitive H2 due to their rapid growth, metabolic versatility and sulfur-free biomass. Method: A patentometric study was carried out based on patent documents published between 2013 and 2023, mined in the software VantagePoint to calculate the Emergency Score. Results and Discussion: The retrieved patent documents highlighted bioremediation processes in biorefineries and chemical and physical processes to separate H2 from other elements as emerging technological routes. Investments in these routes associated with genetic engineering of algae and better bioreactor design are possible combinations that will generate competitive advantage. Research Implications: Even if algae are not yet viable at the present time, the diversification of sources encourages the execution of new projects to evaluate biomass and develop industrial processes. The issues highlighted are actions that will potentially strengthen socio-environmental responsibility initiatives, associated with the concept of circular economy. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by indicating paths for the development of technological solutions for hydrogen production from algae biomass, becoming another alternative aimed at energy security.