Recognising hydrogen’s potential as a clean energy source to combat climate change and reduce carbon emissions, the Southern African Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Conference, taking place on April 7 and 8, has established itself as a premier platform for advancing hydrogen and fuel cell technologies.

The Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) – the event’s organiser – aims to disseminate knowledge and assist in sourcing information with regard to technological developments in the mining, metallurgy and related sectors.

This year’s conference aims to showcase advancements in green hydrogen production, storage and use while fostering collaboration among industry leaders, academics and policymakers, and to align research efforts with real-world requirements that support South Africa’s hydrogen ambitions.

Building on the success of its inaugural event, the second conference will be held at the Southern Sun in Rosebank, Gauteng. This year’s expanded agenda promises to drive deeper engagement on the sector’s critical challenges and opportunities.

The event will feature in-depth discussions on scaling hydrogen production, enhancing fuel cell applications and integrating these technologies across the transportation, energy and industrial sectors.

It also aims to strengthen partnerships and accelerate the commercial deployment of hydrogen solutions.

The conference will focus on themes essential to overcoming the sector’s challenges, says SAIMM.

These include insights into hydrogen production and storage, fuel cell technologies, hydrogen applications and integration, and hydrogen mobility, covering strategies, safety, roadmaps and transitioning to hydrogen refuelling stations.

“These themes directly address the sector’s current hurdles, such as the need for cost reduction, technological innovation and robust policy support to enable large-scale adoption.”

The institute adds that, with South Africa gaining recognition as a potential global hydrogen hub, the SAIMM also anticipates increased international participation.

The country’s abundant solar and wind resources, combined with its precious metal reserves, position it as a potential global leader in green hydrogen production and export.

“In humanity’s quest to diversify energy sources and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, green hydrogen offers solutions that enhance energy security and sustainability in terms of . . . energy production and storage,” the institute adds.

The adoption and implementation of hydrogen technologies and processes that allow for green hydrogen production at competitive prices will not only bolster South Africa’s energy security and sustainability but also contribute significantly to the global energy transition.

SAIMM adds that the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation has been actively promoting local hydrogen projects at international events, such as the Fuel Cell Expo, in Japan, and the EU Hydrogen Week, in Belgium.

The institute concludes that the conference will provide “unparalleled” networking opportunities, exposure to the latest innovations and direct access to decision-makers shaping the hydrogen economy.