Assessing the adoption of green hydrogen in South Africa

Abstract

South Africa is grappling with an energy crisis due to the depletion of fossil fuels deteriorating infrastructure and governmental challenges; aggravated by the increasing electricity demand and inadequate capacity to meet supply requirements. Green hydrogen can potentially assist with the alleviation of the energy crisis. This study assessed the potential for South Africa to manufacture and utilise green hydrogen as an alternative energy source focusing on the opportunities and the challenges. Data was collected through interviews with subject matter experts using thematic analysis. The study provided key insights on the adoption of green hydrogen in South Africa with government playing a pivotal role in unlocking the adoption of hydrogen in South Africa. The findings also indicated that South Africa has abundant land availability and renewable energy resources to produce green hydrogen. However, there are significant challenges with regards to technology, infrastructure, and legislative structures that limit the manufacture of green hydrogen. The study repeatedly addressed the capital and production costs of green hydrogen.