Minister Nzimande Leads Delegation to Japan to Strengthen Hydrogen Economy Cooperation

Dr Blade Nzimande will visit Japan to bolster South Africa’s hydrogen economy. The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation is heading a delegation to Tokyo. According to SANews, this visit is part of an ongoing effort to advance hydrogen-related initiatives in the country.

The delegation’s primary objectives include showcasing the work conducted by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) in hydrogen energy and fostering collaboration, investment, and innovation. These endeavours aim to support the large-scale deployment of hydrogen in alignment with South Africa’s Hydrogen Society Roadmap, which was introduced by the DSI in 2022.

The Hydrogen Society Roadmap serves as a national framework designed to facilitate the integration of hydrogen-related technologies across various sectors of South Africa’s economy. This initiative is pivotal in stimulating economic growth, in line with the country’s Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan.

Among the key outcomes envisioned by the roadmap is establishing a manufacturing sector for hydrogen products and components.

The visit commenced with Minister Nzimande and the delegation’s participation in the Tokyo GX Week Plenary Session, hosted by Japan’s Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), Yasutoshi Nishimura. Tokyo GX Week 2023 is dedicated to accelerating global efforts to achieve net-zero emissions.

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This initiative underscores the commitment to transitioning from fossil fuel-dependent economic and industrial structures towards clean energy sources, fostering economic growth and development while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Minister Nzimande will also address the 6th Hydrogen Energy Ministerial Meeting, bringing together high-level representatives from the public and private sectors involved in energy and environmental matters.

Today, the DSI organises a South Africa-Japan workshop with the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO). The workshop aims to facilitate discussions between South African and Japanese entities regarding establishing a large-scale demonstration project centred on hydrogen.

Minister Nzimande and Mr Nishimura will formalise cooperation between the DSI and METI by signing a memorandum of cooperation. This agreement will facilitate joint efforts in developing a sustainable and affordable hydrogen and ammonia supply chain, both critical components of achieving net-zero emissions.

South Africa and Japan share a longstanding partnership with common interests in science, technology, and innovation (STI). The collaboration in STI between the two nations has steadily grown since the signing of the STI agreement in 2003.

These engagements between South Africa and Japan are poised to have a profound impact on advancing hydrogen-related technologies and fostering sustainability in both countries, contributing to the global effort to combat climate change. The delegation’s activities will continue until September 27th.

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Picture: X / SithaleKgaogelo

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