South Africa has unveiled an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Guideline and Green Hydrogen Potential Atlas to support the growth of its green hydrogen sector.
The resources were released by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, in collaboration with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research and GFA Consulting Group.
The EIA guideline provides detailed guidance for industry stakeholders on assessing the environmental impacts of green hydrogen projects, including navigating policy, regulatory frameworks and best practices for project planning and execution. The Green Hydrogen Potential Atlas, an online geospatial tool, maps areas suitable for green hydrogen production, highlighting both domestic and export potential. It also identifies where shared infrastructure could boost development of South Africa’s green hydrogen economy.
Both tools are part of the H2.SA Program, which is designed to foster South Africa’s green hydrogen economy by leveraging its abundant renewable energy resources. These tools aim to assist government bodies, project developers and other stakeholders in integrating environmental and social considerations into decision-making processes for green hydrogen projects.
Developed over 24 months, the new tools offer a comprehensive framework for the responsible planning of green hydrogen ventures in South Africa, positioning the country to play a key role in the global green energy transition.
