JOURNAL ARTICLE

Controversial Chilean energy project scrapped, relieving astronomers: Light pollution from green hydrogen plant would have threatened world's largest telescopes.

  • Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2026. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: de los Ángeles Orfila, María 3 of 3

Abstract

An energy company has decided to abandon its green energy project in Chile's Atacama Desert, which faced opposition due to its proximity to major astronomical observatories, including the Very Large Telescope (VLT) and the upcoming Extremely Large Telescope (ELT). The project, known as INNA, aimed to produce green hydrogen and ammonia but was criticized for potentially causing light pollution and other disturbances detrimental to the observatories. The decision was supported by the astronomical community, including prominent figures and institutions, and was welcomed by Chilean officials, reflecting a significant public and political response to the project's implications for scientific research. The company stated that the withdrawal does not indicate a lack of confidence in the future of green hydrogen. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Sciencemag.org. 2026/01, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Environmental Sciences
  • Publication Date:2026
  • Accession Number:191180055
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