Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, the South African Minister for Electricity and Energy, said he has been actively engaging with potential funders and trading companies in Japan to attract investment for green hydrogen projects.
Ramokgopa made this disclosure during a three-day visit to the Asian country, as per a report by Bloomberg.
The report noted that this development marks the minister’s latest effort to support plans for manufacturing hydrogen and ammonia using renewable energy sources.
During his time in Japan, Ramokgopa also plans to meet with prominent financial institutions and trading companies, including Mitsui & Co. and Itochu Corp., according to a government statement. Highlighting the collaboration potential, he noted, “Japan’s pursuit of a sustainable hydrogen future presents a unique opportunity for us.”
Since stabilizing South Africa’s power grid and halting scheduled power cuts in March, the minister has turned his focus to diversifying the country’s energy portfolio through international partnerships.
While South Africa, the most industrialized nation in Africa, continues to rely on coal-fired power plants for about 80% of its electricity, plans are underway to delay their retirement while preparing for cleaner energy replacements.
Green hydrogen projects are gaining momentum.
Sasol Ltd. has proposed a project at Boegoebaai, an underdeveloped area on South Africa’s west coast, though progress has been slow since its 2021 announcement. Another significant development is the planned green ammonia facility at the port of Coega in the southern part of the country.
In September, the European Union pledged €32 million ($34 million) in grants to support South Africa’s green hydrogen ambitions, providing a critical boost to kick-start the industry.
These initiatives reflect South Africa’s broader strategy to transition towards a sustainable and diversified energy future while leveraging international support.
