Morocco and South Africa Charge Forward in Hydrogen Innovation

2025-09-09 investment

Vaal University of Technology, Tuesday, 9 September 2025.
South Africa and Morocco are ramping up their hydrogen game. With new research hubs and global partnerships, they’re reducing tech reliance and boosting industrial value. Africa’s hydrogen future looks bright!

South Africa’s Hydrogen Ambitions

On 5 September 2025, South Africa’s Vaal University of Technology proudly unveiled its new Centre of Excellence for Hydrogen Energy, a move strongly supported by Standard Bank. This centre is more than just a building; it’s a cornerstone of South Africa’s long-term strategy to lead in hydrogen technology. Since 2008, the Hydrogen South Africa (HySA) programme has been fostering local intellectual property and expertise, aiming for a competitive hydrogen value chain through continuous investment in research and development. The partnership between academia and industry here is a perfect example of how public-private partnerships can drive innovation [1].

Morocco’s Green Hydrogen Leap

Morocco isn’t lagging behind. The Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) is making waves by teaming up with global firms like Oort Energy and Chariot. Earlier this year, they launched a 1 MW solar-powered electrolyzer in the UK, developed with Moroccan expertise. Additionally, a joint venture with Australia’s Fortescue is set to boost green hydrogen production. These partnerships are crucial for building local capacity and reducing reliance on imported technology, helping Morocco turn its abundant natural resources into industrial strength [1].

Shared Vision and Future Prospects

Both South Africa and Morocco are on a mission. They see applied research and home-grown talent as essential for capturing more value in the hydrogen supply chain. By focusing on developing skills and creating patents, they aim to cut down on tech imports and leverage local resources. If successful, these initiatives could elevate these nations from mere hydrogen producers to exporters of technology and expertise. There’s a buzz around whether this momentum will inspire other African countries to jump on the hydrogen bandwagon and claim their slice of this growing market [1].

Bronnen

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