Green hydrogen is selling itself globally. Climate change mitigation has created the demand. It was good to hear Kumba Iron Ore say that it is investigating the use of green hydrogen for its mining activities. It was also good that Sasol included green hydrogen in its low-carbon reset hopes.
But more needs to be done if South Africa is to keep up with even countries like Namibia. In Australia, funds have already been allocated to upgrade port infrastructure so that South Australia can become a green hydrogen exporter.
BHP is investigating the use of hydrogen in clean steelmaking. Mining magnate Andrew Forrest wants to take on the oil giants with green hydrogen, and Australian Vanadium is including green hydrogen in its ore reduction and transport plans. Those compiling South Africa’s Hydrogen Roadmap need to get a move on so that South Africa’s people are able to seize this wonderful green hydrogen opportunity with far greater enthusiasm.