Green hydrogen from pig manure: MV project under criticism!

Green hydrogen from pig manure: MV project under criticism!

Almost three years after a delegation trip from Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania to Brazil, the results of this trip have now been examined again. The largest opposition faction in the state parliament, the AfD, has submitted a small question to the state government regarding the progress of the project. This is particularly about a cooperation that aims to convert pig manure into green hydrogen.

The state government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Manuela Schwesig (SPD), explained that the trip was originally intended for companies in the areas of renewable energies, circular economy and environmental technology. The purpose was to act as a “door opener” to the regional governments of the Brazilian states. In this context, a cooperation agreement was signed between the German Society for International Cooperation, Mele Energietechnik GmbH and two agricultural cooperatives from Paraná. This partnership aims to develop innovative solutions for the energy transition.

Political debate about progress and financing

The AfD has now expressed criticism, particularly through its economic policy spokesman Martin Schmidt. He complained that the state government did not adequately track the progress of the project and lacked awareness of any difficulties. The state government then emphasized that it was not directly involved in the business ventures and had no knowledge of its own about them. Nevertheless, according to the government, the project is in a realization phase while the company negotiates with investors and the Brazilian government about possible expansions.

Schmidt also expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of specific funds in the 2026/2027 double budget that should be made available to support the project. The AfD demands that the state government give an account of the successes and failures of its foreign trade activities to the economic committee. The state government defends its travel activities and emphasizes close cooperation with the economic chambers in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, as Brazil is still considered an important foreign trade destination.

Setting the course for the future

Prime Minister Schwesig's visit to Brazil as part of her Federal Council presidency in 2024 is intended to help deepen economic relations with this emerging market. After the delegation trip, a Brazil network was founded that brings together companies from Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and operates under the leadership of the IHK Neubrandenburg. This will further strengthen future cooperation with Brazil and offer the opportunity to advance innovative projects from the region.

At a time when sustainable energy solutions are very popular, the project's approach to resource conservation and waste recycling represents an exciting perspective. The transformation of pig manure into green hydrogen could not only contribute to the energy supply, but also bring ecological benefits. The project raises hope for a sustainable economy that is networked both locally and internationally.

The developments surrounding this ambitious project show that in politics, questions (or as they say in English: “queries”) always have to be raised in order to make progress and difficulties transparent. As the political debate shows, it remains to be seen how things will develop and whether the cooperation will bear fruit. Ultimately, only time will tell whether the trip to Brazil and the partnerships forged there can actually be a success. Things remain exciting for the citizens of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania!