Question NW3263 to the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation

Reply:

The Minister participated in hydrogen economy-related ministerial engagements from 25 to 27 September 2023 that were held in Tokyo, Japan, to profile the work of the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) as well as promote collaboration, investment, and innovation in support of the deployment of hydrogen at scale, which is essential for the successful implementation of the National Hydrogen Society Roadmap (HSRM).

(a) Subsequent to the Ministerial Visit to Japan, the following plans are in place to build a hydrogen economy in the Republic:

1. Energy Sector Support Programmes

In support of the energy sector, the DSI will continue to support the following energy research, development and innovation (RDI) programmes with academic institutions and corporate partners:

• Hydrogen South Africa (University of Cape Town, Mintek, North-West University, Council for Industrial Research, University of the Western Cape, Anglo American, Impala Platinum, Bambili (SMME), etc.);
• Platinum Valley Project (Anglo American Platinum, Engie and Bambili);
• Green Ammonia project (Sasol); and
• Carbon Capture and Use (PPC Cement, EPCM (SMME)).

2. Design of Appropriate Operating Models

The DSI has initiated engagements with private sector and international partners to design appropriate operating models that will ensure better coordination and partnerships for the effective implementation of the Hydrogen Society Roadmap.

(b) The following steps will be taken to ensure that a hydrogen economy is built in the Republic:

1. Strengthen Current Existing Strategic Partnerships

The DSI will continue to explore ways to strengthen the following current existing strategic partnerships through active participation in related platforms:

• International Partnership for Hydrogen and Fuel Cells in the Economy (IPHE). South Africa is the current Chair of the IPHE and aims to use its tenure to encourage more African countries to join IPHE;
• International Energy Agency;
• United Nations Industrial Development Organization;
• Hydrogen Council (private sector-led); and
• African Hydrogen Alliance (Egypt, Kenya, Mauritania, Morocco, Namibia and South Africa).

2. Opportunities for Partnerships

The DSI will continue to seek partnerships with both the public and private sector in:

• Testing and validation of the technology through field trials;
• Further development and optimisation of the technology;
• Developing a supply chain that supports the deployment of technology;
• Supporting skills development through internships (universities & TVETs) to support technology deployment;
• Training the end users of the technologies through local municipalities;
• Stimulating local demand for emerging technologies to power social and economic infrastructure; and
• Facilitating the establishment of manufacturing facilities in the country that allow for the integration of locally developed intellectual property and inbound technology where appropriate.