Driving around Germany in a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) presents no problem these days. Hydrogen refuelling pumps are there for even small privately owned fuel cell electric vehicles. From a South African viewpoint, the two words ‘fuel’ and ‘cell’ are key, as are ‘proton exchange membrane or PEM’ electrolysers.
This is not only because the future of South Africa’s priceless platinum group metals mines will be at risk if the world does not follow this route, but it is also the right thing to do. Energy sovereignty is possible no matter where you live in the world and South Africa Inc must pursue the energy freedom that is now within every country’s grasp.
We have the sun, wind and land, as well as the fuel cell know-how, green hydrogen potential and the bonus of platinum group metals. The building of the proposed hydrogen corridor from Limpopo through Gauteng to KwaZulu-Natal must be accelerated and hydrogen refuelling stations placed along the way for trucks and heavy vehicles at this stage. As the hydrogen economy develops, at least one hydrogen pump should be mandatory at each of our traditional filling stations for the eventual change-over to small privately owned FCEV cars.
All government has to do is provide the policy framework. The momentum is there for the private sector to do just about all of the rest.