Session: 09-10-02: Hydrogen Production, Storage, and Integrated Hydrogen Energy Systems II

Paper Number: 165250

Model for Green Hydrogen Integration in South Africa's Transportation Sector 

The world is transitioning to energy sources that are green and reduce global emissions. South Africa is driving her commitment to reduce global emissions by investing in green energy sources including converting coal to clean coal and investing in other green energy sources including hydrogen. Green hydrogen (GH) is a source of energy generated from the electrolysis of water using renewable energy sources like solar, and wind. South Africa has committed to attain net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 as part of its larger environmental objectives. There is a big chance to improve sustainability, lower carbon emissions, and promote energy security by integrating green hydrogen (GH) into South Africa's transportation industry. Integrating green hydrogen into South Africa’s transport sector will require a phased and multi-modal approach. Green hydrogen can meet varying energy demands in the transport sector. This study focused on a model for the deployment of green hydrogen in different transport sectors in South Africa. The model used renewable energy sources in the splitting of water to generate green hydrogen using advanced electrolysis. This will aid in decarbonizing the transport system. It is believed that about 40% of CO2 emissions could be reduced by green hydrogen. This underscores the transformative potential of green hydrogen for sustainable mobility. Existing data shows that renewable energy output is over 10 million megawatts-hours. However, there is still a research gap in scalable storage, distribution infrastructure, and policy-related issues. The growing government incentives and investment from other sectors present a window of opportunity for the technology. South Africa's dependence on fossil fuels, alongside escalating environmental challenges, underscores the necessity for a domestically created clean, renewable energy source. Green hydrogen, produced via electrolysis with renewable energy sources such as sun and wind, provides a zero-emissions solution that can be effectively stored, transported, and utilized. The suggested model delineates essential elements for effective GH integration, commencing with a resilient production and supply chain network that utilizes the nation's abundant renewable energy resources. The model also considers the infrastructure necessary to support hydrogen fuel cell cars (HFCVs), hydrogen-powered trains, and possible applications in long-distance maritime and aviation industries. The study examines the economic advantages of adopting green hydrogen, encompassing job development, energy security, and the possibilities for establishing a green hydrogen export market. Policy support is crucial for this shift, and the study examines regulatory incentives, public-private partnerships, and international cooperation as important factors for successful implementation. A staged roadmap is suggested, with short-term objectives centered on pilot projects, medium-term objectives aiming at infrastructure growth, and long-term objectives focused on comprehensive integration. The environmental advantages, encompassing substantial decreases in greenhouse gas emissions, are assessed in conjunction with the economic and technological obstacles. This concept offers a strategic framework for South Africa to spearhead green hydrogen implementation in Africa's transportation sector, promoting a cleaner and more resilient energy future.

 

Presenting Author: Tien-Chien Jen Univ Of Johannesburg

Presenting Author Biography: Prof Tien-Chien Jen is a Professor of the Department of Mechanical Engineering Science at the University of Johannesburg.

Authors:

Kingsley Ukoba University of Johannesburg
Tien-Chien Jen Univ Of Johannesburg