Hive Hydrogen's Coega Green Ammonia Project: A Renewable Energy Endeavor in South Africa
Key Ideas
- Hive Hydrogen in South Africa is seeking proposals for the Coega Green Ammonia project worth $5.8 billion, set to produce one million tons of green ammonia annually.
- The project will utilize a large solar PV cluster and wind power for renewable energy, with plans for seawater abstraction and storage facilities.
- With a final investment decision expected in Q3 2026, the project aims to start production by 2029 and target export markets like Japan and South Korea.
- A joint venture between Hive Energy and BuiltAfrica Group, the Coega Green Ammonia project signifies a significant move towards sustainable and green energy initiatives in South Africa.
Hive Hydrogen, a renewable energy company in South Africa, has initiated the Coega Green Ammonia project by requesting proposals for its development. The project, located near Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape province, has a substantial budget of $5.8 billion. It aims to become a major producer of green ammonia, targeting an annual production of over one million tons. To achieve this, the project plans to harness renewable energy from a 1,430 MW solar PV cluster and 1,879 MW of wind power. The infrastructure of the plant will feature facilities for seawater abstraction, desalination, demineralization, alongside storage capacity for 70,000 tons of green ammonia, and two 7km pipelines for product transportation.
The timeline for the Coega Green Ammonia project includes the anticipation of a final investment decision in the third quarter of 2026, with production slated to commence by 2029. To bring this ambitious project to fruition, 15 engineering procurement and construction firms have been shortlisted for development. A noteworthy aspect of the project is its joint venture nature, with Hive Energy collaborating with the investment and development firm BuiltAfrica Group.
The green ammonia generated by the plant is primarily earmarked for export markets, with Japan and South Korea among the key targets. This strategic move aligns with the global shift towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. By focusing on green technology and sustainable practices, the Coega Green Ammonia project not only represents a significant investment in renewable energy infrastructure but also highlights South Africa's commitment to embracing environmentally friendly initiatives.