President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa is positioning itself as a key global producer of green hydrogen. Ramaphosa was speaking at the unveiling of the world’s largest hydrogen-powered mine haul truck at Anglo American’s Mogalakwena mine in Limpopo.
The company says it has a short-term plan to have a fleet of powered hydrogen trucks by 2028 in order to reduce carbon emissions. Hydrogen is already also being used in some iron smelters in Europe and is seen as a key resource in moving the world’s heavy industries away from dirty coal, oil, and gas.
The President says South Africa can benefit massively from producing green hydrogen.
“We, here in SA with today’s launch, have proven that we are taking a giant leap into the future of this economy of hydrogen. Not only will it be a valuable driver of economic growth, as well as employment, but it will also contribute to our decarbonisation efforts. The proposed hydrogen valley stretching from here in Limpopo right through to Gauteng to KZN will position SA as a global centre for green hydrogen production.”
The video below is reporting on the unveiling:
The first and only driver of the hydrogen-powered truck, Alex Lekgau, has expressed excitement to operate the heavy mining vehicle.
“The feeling is actually extraordinary. I can’t explain how I’m feeling about driving a hydrogen truck for the very first time. When I was driving this truck … as I entered the cub I started to feel very overwhelmed. Operating a hydrogen truck requires someone who will multi-task, I feel like I’m in an aircraft,” adds Lekgau.
