Green Hydrogen Production as a Catalyst for Africa's Prosperous Future

24 Jul 2023

Powering industries, transportation, and water access through renewables

Africa, with its vast renewable resources, holds great potential in hydrogen production. During a recent discussion at the Royal Palace of Caserta (Italy), organized by the RES4Africa Foundation, our Natalia Pierozzi, RINA Carbon Reduction Excellence Senior Technical Manager, explored the strengths, weaknesses, and current state of technologies along the hydrogen value chain.

Hydrogen's versatility: a solution for diverse sectors

One of the key advantages of green hydrogen lies in its versatility as an energy carrier. As Africa seeks to address the challenges of providing affordable energy access for all, green hydrogen can play a transformative role. By using hydrogen for green fertilizer production, the agricultural sector can flourish sustainably, reducing dependence on traditional, carbon-intensive fertilizers. Additionally, hydrogen can serve as a clean fuel for hard-to-abate sectors, such as heavy industry, where other decarbonization methods are challenging to implement. Furthermore, hydrogen-powered transportation can offer a cleaner alternative for specific segments, like long-haul freight or public transit systems.

Empowering communities: hydrogen's indirect benefits

Hydrogen production offers more than just energy solutions. It indirectly addresses critical local needs, particularly in water-scarce regions. Green hydrogen production obtained starting from salty water and desalination generates tap water and oxygen as byproducts, providing communities with access to freshwater. These co-benefits can significantly improve the well-being and livelihoods of African communities.

Hydrogen technologies: advancements and opportunities

The technologies serving the green hydrogen value chain stand at a different readiness level but are available in the market for use in the projects. However, much work is still needed in terms of performance increase, cost reduction, upscaling, alternatives identification to the use of rare materials, as well as increase of manufacturing capacity to meet industry and government targets, standardization of the systems and growth of the value chain.  

As technology matures, the commercial viability of green hydrogen becomes increasingly realistic, presenting a tremendous opportunity for Africa to leapfrog into a sustainable energy future.

Collaborating for a greener Africa

As we continue to expand our presence through local offices, RINA is dedicated to supporting the continent's hydrogen journey: contact us to learn more.