Navigating the current landscape of green hydrogen, its potential, and challenges: a South African perspective

Abstract

The main aim of this paper is to give an overview of the current landscape of the green hydrogen (GH2) developments in South Africa and delve into possible barriers and opportunities. With this intention, a detailed overview of GH2 production, storage, and its application was integrated. This is done through detailed assessment of the global and local literature and other key documents such as research reports, policy documents and other documents associated with GH2 economy. As global communities’ transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, GH2 is identified as a key solution to decarbonize hard-to-abate sectors such as the transport, chemical industry, and agriculture. Green hydrogen is produced using renewable energy sources such as solar and wind; with the application of electrolysers which split water into hydrogen and oxygen. With South Africa endowed with wind and solar power generation resources, the country is earmarked as one of the potential frontrunners of the GH2 economy. Despite its potential, it is argued that South Africa still lacks financial resources, technology, and labour force of the correct skills to rapidly peruse the GH2 economy. Currently, there are 24 GH2 projects proposed with one hydrogen valley across three provinces. As a country with one of the highest unemployment rates, the paper highlights socio-economic prospects and details the government’s intentions to reskill and upskill labour force to address the identified skills deficit for the GH2 economy. Furthermore, South Africa possesses critical minerals such as platinum and iridium, which are essential to produce electrolysers and fuel cells. With this immense potential of the GH2 economy in South Africa, the paper also delves into potential challenges such as water requirements, increased demand of critical minerals, energy security concerns, financial implications, as well as environmental and biodiversity impacts. Furthermore, the paper provides strategic recommendations pertaining to technological advancement and cost reduction through research and development, investment and financial mechanisms, public-private partnerships and development of government policy and regulatory support to accelerate the GH2 economy that enable a national just transition.