Sasol and IDC to co-develop South Africa’s hydrogen economy 

Sasol Limited (Sasol) and the Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa Limited (IDC) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on developing and shaping an enabling environment for South Africa’s green hydrogen economy.

The MOC is based on the parties’ recognition that South Africa is well positioned to harness its world-class renewable energy endowment and infrastructure, as well as Sasol’s Fischer-Tropsch technology and capabilities, to position the country as a worldwide hydrogen economy leader.

Sasol and the IDC will collaborate on a non-exclusive basis to advocate for policy frameworks that enable a hydrogen economy; develop pilot and commercial scale hydrogen projects to pioneer viable and sustainable solutions; access local and international financing options; and pursue strategic projects that benefit the country’s energy transit system.

Priscillah Mabelane, Sasol’s Executive Vice President: Energy Business, said: “Green hydrogen provides an exciting opportunity for the country to create new hydrogen ecosystems and become a credible exporter of sustainable energy and chemical products, such as hydrogen, ammonia and sustainable aviation fuel, while increasing much-needed employment opportunities.”

“Our ambition is to lead and co-create South Africa’s hydrogen ecosystems through strategic partnerships, leveraging our proprietary technology and integrated value chain. We are delighted to partner with the IDC in jointly pursuing South Africa’s green hydrogen potential to support a just energy transition and unlock new value chains to ignite the country’s economy,” concluded Ms Mabelane.

Joanne Bate, Chief Operations Officer from the IDC said: “The development of the hydrogen industry is a key enabler in South Africa’s just transition to a decarbonised future.  Hydrogen has the potential to decarbonise various industrial sectors.  IDC intends on getting involved in the development of those catalytic projects needed to develop this new industry.  We are looking forward to working together with Sasol in identifying and co-developing such catalytic projects.  Our involvement in the development of the hydrogen industry also provides opportunities to fulfill our development mandate which entails job creation and opportunities to involve previously disadvantaged entities.”