Empowering South Africa's Future: Green Hydrogen Research Partnership at Durban University of Technology
Key Ideas
  • Sanedi and DUT partnered to research green hydrogen production from borehole water, aiming to drive innovation and benefit the South African economy.
  • The project involves training post-doctoral and master's students, supported by a grant of R2 million for the first year, showing commitment to future talent development.
  • The collaboration aligns with South Africa's Just Energy Transition plans, global hydrogen demand projections, and the country's goal to reach net zero emissions.
  • Investing in green hydrogen is seen as a pathway to economic diversification, job creation, reducing emissions, and supporting sustainable energy development in South Africa.
Sanedi and the Durban University of Technology (DUT) have joined forces to conduct research on green hydrogen production, specifically focusing on generating green hydrogen from borehole water using Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) technology. The partnership was formalized through a collaboration agreement signing, marking the beginning of a significant project supported by an initial grant of R2 million from Sanedi. The research aims to explore the feasibility of creating green hydrogen, fostering innovation, and providing a platform for knowledge exchange among researchers. The project also includes training opportunities for post-doctoral and master's students to support the research activities. The partnership between Sanedi and DUT is viewed as a crucial step towards addressing South Africa's energy challenges through renewable power and hydrogen technologies. Professor Sampson Mamphweli, head of Sanedi's Energy Secretariat, emphasized the importance of collaboration between academia and industry in tackling energy issues and transitioning to a low-carbon economy. The project not only aligns with South Africa's hydrogen society roadmap but also contributes to the country's Just Energy Transition plans. The joint research project is seen as a strategic move to stimulate economic growth, especially in rural areas, through the development and deployment of green hydrogen technologies. It also supports South Africa's Green Hydrogen Roadmap and complements existing initiatives by the Department of Science and Innovation. By investing in green hydrogen, South Africa aims to diversify its economy, create sustainable energy sources, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and mitigate harmful emissions. Furthermore, Sanedi's involvement in green hydrogen research is vital for South Africa to position itself as a leading producer in the global hydrogen market. The collaboration is expected to inform policy decision-making processes and drive the country's efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with its international commitments. Investing in green hydrogen is seen as a means to close the gender and skills gap, create new job opportunities, and contribute to South Africa's transition towards a more sustainable energy future.
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