The hydrogen energy sector could have huge economic benefits for South Africa

In 2007, Cabinet approved the National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Research, Development and Innovation Strategy to launch the journey towards the hydrogen economy in South Africa.

FILE: The University of the Western Cape (UWC) presented physical evidence of the progress made by the hydrogen energy industry. Image: Provided

CAPE TOWN — Experts say the untapped hydrogen power sector can help the country’s economic recovery plan.

In 2007, Cabinet approved the National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Research, Development and Innovation Strategy to launch the journey towards the hydrogen economy in South Africa.

On Friday morning, officials briefed Parliament on the massive gains being made in the industry.

The hydrogen sector in South Africa is not just a place for discussion.

The University of the Western Cape (UWC) presented hard evidence of the progress made by the industry.

They showed golf carts, tricycles and a scooter, all powered by this energy source.

HySA Systems Key Technology Specialist Dr. Wafeeq Davids hosted at UWC explained the benefits of this fuel source.

“The research we are doing here is very beneficial for the country because it is about clean energy. We do not manufacture any harmful products. The only by-product we produce in the hydrogen fuel cell is water vapour. We also train students, PhDs, Masters students and technicians to develop professional skills in this new field of engineering in South Africa.

Director General of the Department of Science and Innovation, Dr Phil Mjwara, said he aimed to deploy hydrogen energy more commercially.

“We haven’t made the full economy but we think we can contribute 1 to 2% to the GDP. We could generate up to 60,000 new jobs in the next 10 to 15 years.

The government also plans to have at least 100 buses and trucks powered by green hydrogen energy by 2025 and at least five refueling stations deployed by then.