Who Hinicio Is and What They Do
Founded back in 2006, Hinicio has grown into a top-tier technical and strategic consulting firm, laser-focused on hydrogen and its derivatives, sustainable transport, and industrial decarbonization. With a portfolio boasting over 900 projects across 45 countries, they advise a diverse range of clients—from governments and companies to international organizations, including investment banks, multilateral entities, and venture capital firms. Their expertise covers everything from crafting corporate and national strategies to developing public policies, guiding investment decisions, and managing complex studies and projects that blend high technology with economic savvy.
Main Benefits and Key Figures
Hinicio’s impact is impressive, and here’s a quick snapshot:
- Over 900 projects completed worldwide
- Presence in 45 countries across Europe, the Americas, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East
- Specialization in renewable energy, low-carbon hydrogen, BESS, e-mobility, methane, ammonia, methanol, SAF, and CCUS
- Recognized with awards like ‘Best Hydrogen Industry Service Provider in LAC’ (2022 & 2024) and ‘Reuters: Top 10 Hydrogen Consultancy Firms’ (2023)
- Part of the Vulcain Group since 2022, with headquarters in Brussels and offices in Paris, Rotterdam, Washington D.C., Santiago de Chile, and Bogotá
Expertise Across the Entire Value Chain
What sets Hinicio apart is their deep dive into the entire hydrogen value chain. From the initial spark of an idea to the final investment decision, they’re there. Their systems engineering capabilities allow them to integrate a wide range of technologies—think renewable energy, electrolysers, transmission lines, BESS, hydrogen storage, pipelines, chemical reactors, and even port logistics—into a seamless, efficient system. This holistic approach, backed by advanced project design optimization tools, means they deliver solutions that maximize operational efficiency and meet market demands head-on.
Shaping Regulatory Frameworks and Public Policy
Hinicio’s influence goes beyond projects—they’ve been instrumental in laying the groundwork for regulatory frameworks, especially for renewable and low-emission hydrogen in the European Union and the Americas. They understand that no two projects are alike; each must be tailored to local and regional conditions. This means adapting operational designs, market projections, and financing frameworks to optimize everything from plant capacity to certification processes. Their work has positioned many projects in the coveted H2 premium market, ensuring financial success and client confidence through due diligence, negotiation of renewable energy PPAs, offtake agreements, and securing subsidies and tax credits.
A Rich History Rooted in Vision and Growth
Hinicio’s journey started with a small but passionate team led by Patrick Maio, co-founder of the European Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Technology Platform and current CEO. Early on, they supported the hydrogen and fuel cell industry in Europe, coordinating some of the first development projects in the EU. From their Brussels headquarters, they expanded to Paris and beyond, growing their footprint and expertise. By 2016, with over 150 projects under their belt, they joined the FCH JU (now Clean Hydrogen Partnership) and pioneered consulting services like Go-To-Market Strategies and Business Models. Their work on CertifHy, Europe’s first GO certification system for hydrogen, marked a significant milestone, supported by the European Commission and expanding clean hydrogen interest globally.
Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Hinicio places a strong emphasis on fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. They recognize that their human capital—the collective sum of individual differences, life experiences, knowledge, inventiveness, and unique talents—is their most valuable asset. This commitment not only shapes their company culture but also drives their reputation and achievements. By cultivating an environment where everyone can bring their full selves to work, Hinicio ensures creativity and innovation thrive, fueling their mission to accelerate the global energy transition.
