Supporting development of green hydrogen production in South Africa
Promoting the development of a green hydrogen sector in South Africa (H2.SA)
Promoting the development of a green hydrogen sector in South Africa (H2.SA)
German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)
South Africa
South Africa, The Presidency
South Africa - The Presidency
2021 to 2025
Sustainable infrastructure: water, energy, transport
South Africa holds prime potential to position itself as a global leader in green hydrogen production. With abundant renewable energy resources, including ideal conditions for wind and solar energy, the country can establish large scale solar and wind farms. Furthermore, South Africa already operates synthetic fuel production facilities, which currently rely on coal but could transition to cleaner alternatives. Additionally, the country’s vast platinum reserves, essential for electrolysers and fuel cell production, provide a strategic advantage.
By capitalising on these resources, South Africa can not only export green hydrogen and its derivatives, but also significantly reduce domestic carbon emissions by replacing fossil fuels. This transition also presents an opportunity to create alternative employment for workers currently employed in the coal industry, helping to drive economic diversification that could offer alternative employment options.
South Africa has improved its strategic, regulatory and technical requirements for building a green hydrogen economy.
The project supports its South African partners across government, industry, academia, and civil society in the following areas:
Last update: December 2024