South Africa is taking a big step toward clean energy with the launch of its Green Hydrogen Potential Atlas.
This project, led by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) in partnership with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and GFA Consulting Group, aims to map out areas best suited for green hydrogen production.
The Green Hydrogen Potential Atlas is an interactive tool that helps identify the best locations in South Africa for producing green hydrogen.
Green hydrogen is made using renewable energy to split water into hydrogen and oxygen.
It is seen as a clean energy source that can power industries, transport, and electricity generation without polluting the environment.
The atlas provides detailed information on water availability, land use, renewable energy sources, and the cost of hydrogen production.
It helps decision-makers, investors, and researchers understand where green hydrogen projects can work best.
The tool also covers 12 Southern African countries, offering a regional perspective on green hydrogen opportunities.
Alongside the atlas, South Africa has also introduced an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Guideline.
This guideline ensures that green hydrogen projects are developed in a way that protects the environment and benefits communities.
It provides practical advice on regulations, planning, and best practices for approving green hydrogen projects.
South Africa has a strong foundation for green hydrogen development. The country has plenty of sunshine and wind, making it ideal for renewable energy projects.
Its ports and infrastructure also make it well-positioned to export green hydrogen, which could boost the economy while supporting global efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
Building a green hydrogen economy could bring major economic benefits. Experts estimate that by 2050, hydrogen could contribute about 3.6% to South Africa’s economy and create around 360,000 jobs.
Green hydrogen projects will provide employment in construction, engineering, and manufacturing while supporting local businesses and supply chains.
Community programs tied to these projects could also improve education and job training. Several green hydrogen projects are already in progress.
These include the Prieska Power Reserve, the Ubuntu Green Energy Hydrogen Project, the Boegoebaai Green Hydrogen Development Programme, Atlanthia Green Hydrogen, and the Sasolburg Green Hydrogen Production Hub.
These projects show that green hydrogen can be produced at scale and could make South Africa a leader in clean energy.
However, challenges remain. Green hydrogen requires large initial investments, and South Africa needs better infrastructure and supportive policies to encourage private sector involvement.
Government support and clear regulations will be essential to ensure that the industry grows in a sustainable and responsible way.
Despite these hurdles, the Green Hydrogen Potential Atlas and EIA Guideline are major steps toward a cleaner future.
By making use of its natural resources and encouraging partnerships between government, businesses, and researchers, South Africa can unlock the potential of green hydrogen and contribute to the global shift toward sustainable energy.
