Dr. David Masondo’s Visit Highlights Advances in Hydrogen Technology
Dr. David Masondo, Chairman of the Public Investment Corporation (PIC), recently toured Hyplat, a subsidiary of Bambili Energy focused on emerging hydrogen technologies, located in Cape Town. This visit, which took place on June 24, was part of an ongoing initiative to demonstrate how pension funds can contribute to South Africa’s long-term economic advancement.
HyPlat’s Role in Hydrogen Innovation
HyPlat plays a pivotal role in Bambili Energy’s hydrogen technology framework, specializing in the production of membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs). This technology has evolved through the Hydrogen South Africa program and emerged from the University of Cape Town. MEAs are crucial components of hydrogen fuel cells and electrolysers, representing a significant application for the country’s abundant platinum group metals.
Leading Exporter in the Hydrogen Sector
As South Africa’s first manufacturer and exporter of MEAs to Europe, HyPlat is setting benchmarks in the hydrogen sector. The Public Investment Corporation made a strategic investment in Bambili Energy in October 2023, acquiring a 15% stake on behalf of the Public Employees’ Pension Fund and the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation. This investment aims to facilitate the company’s transition from research and development to commercialization.
Funding and Future Prospects
Bambili Energy has recently finalized a comprehensive financing feasibility study and is now preparing to secure capital for a large-scale manufacturing facility. Dr. Masondo emphasized the importance of today’s visit, stating that it was an opportunity for the PIC Board to ensure effective oversight and evaluate the performance of its local investments. He underscored how investments like those in Bambili Energy catalyze industrialization, enhance the value of minerals such as platinum, and bolster energy security through hydrogen solutions.
Investment in Mineral Beneficiation
PIC advocates for mineral beneficiation in South Africa. By transforming locally sourced platinum group metals into sophisticated industrial products instead of exporting them in raw form, Bambili Energy is enhancing national industrial capacity and preparing for future demand for these essential minerals. The anticipated production facility aims to position South Africa as a leader in advanced hydrogen technology production.
Job Creation and Skills Development
The planned facility is strategically sited near key research institutions and logistics infrastructures, in proximity to the country’s platinum mining resources. It is projected to create around 440 direct jobs during its construction phase and increase to approximately 1,200 once full manufacturing operations commence. Additionally, the project will cultivate specialized technical skills and bolster exports of homegrown technologies, reinforcing South Africa’s standing in the global clean energy sector.
Collaborations for Future Skills Training
Bambili Energy has also forged a partnership with the University of Pretoria to cultivate expertise in fuel cell technology, successfully training 30 qualified fuel cell engineers. The company anticipates further technology transfer as it enhances its manufacturing capabilities, with training programs recognized by the Trades and Vocational Quality Council.
