EDITORIAL HYDROGEN IN MINING
South Africa
POWERS THE GREEN HYDROGEN REVOLUTION IN MINING
The mining industry is undergoing a green revolution, with hydrogen emerging as a powerful solution to decarbonise operations and unlock new economic opportunities. As the industry embraces this clean fuel, key case studies, cost analyses, and next steps highlight the potential and challenges of adopting hydrogen in mining.
By Anneline Sonpal, Partner, Singular Group
Mining is a significant carbon emitter, but green hydrogen offers a game-changing solution. Replacing diesel with hydrogen can reduce emissions, as seen in Anglo American’ s hydrogen-powered haul truck, which could cut diesel emissions by 80 %.
Hydrogen refuelling is also faster than battery charging, making it operationally efficient. As global hydrogen demand is set to surge, mining can play a key role in adopting hydrogen technologies to decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors.
South Africa: The low-cost hydrogen leader
South Africa has a competitive edge in green hydrogen production due to its strong renewable energy resources and established infrastructure. Africa’ s low-cost energy potential, driven by its high renewable energy endowments, offers a significant advantage. South Africa can produce green hydrogen at $ 2- $ 2.4 / kg, below the global average. The hydrogen economy is expected to contribute 3.6 % to South Africa’ s GDP and create over 370 000 jobs by 2050.
Key advantages for South Africa include:
• Proximity to renewable energy: Mines near solar and wind resources can produce hydrogen at low costs.
• Infrastructure readiness: Existing rail, road, and freight systems support hydrogen distribution locally and internationally.
• Export potential: Africa could export 20-40 Mt of hydrogen and its derivatives annually by 2050, meeting 22 % of global cross-border trade demand.
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