South Africa Strengthens Global Push for Sustainable Fuels and Hydrogen in Japan

South Africa has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing sustainable fuels and hydrogen energy on the international stage, with Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina, using high-level ministerial platforms in Japan to highlight the country’s progress and ambitions.

Advancing Sustainable Fuels

Speaking at the Ministerial Meeting on Sustainable Fuels, Gina underscored South Africa’s determination to decarbonise its historically coal-dependent economy. She emphasised that sustainable fuels will be central to reshaping industries, powering transport systems, and ensuring the country meets its climate commitments while maintaining economic resilience.

Key policy instruments, such as the Biofuel Regulatory Framework (BRF), and strong investment in research, development, and innovation were highlighted as the backbone of South Africa’s fuel transition strategy. Gina explained that robust policies, carbon capture initiatives, and collaboration with international partners will be essential to scaling up production and reducing costs.

Expanding into Hydrogen

Alongside sustainable fuels, Gina spotlighted hydrogen as a transformative opportunity. At the 7th Hydrogen Energy Ministerial Meeting, under the theme “Demand Creation”, she stressed the importance of building both supply and demand for hydrogen globally.

“While supply chains for hydrogen and its derivatives are advancing at remarkable speed, their long-term success will depend on our collective ability to generate and sustain demand,” she told delegates.

South Africa’s plans include establishing hydrogen valleys and hubs, with the Platinum Valley Initiative (PVI) serving as a flagship project. Stretching from the country’s north to Richards Bay on the east coast, the initiative aims to decarbonise heavy industries such as steel, cement, and chemicals, while also driving hydrogen mobility in mining haul trucks, buses, and future power generation.

Incentives for Clean Mobility

To accelerate adoption, Gina highlighted the introduction of tax incentives through the Taxation Laws Amendment Act No. 42 of 2024, targeting the manufacturing of new energy vehicles (NEVs), including hydrogen-powered transport. The incentives are designed to stimulate local production, boost job creation, and nurture South Africa’s emerging hydrogen economy.

A Just and Inclusive Transition

Beyond technology and infrastructure, Gina stressed that South Africa’s energy transition must be inclusive. Training, reskilling, and knowledge transfer will be prioritized to ensure that new industries create jobs, uplift communities, and drive equitable development.

Strengthening Global Collaboration

Her visit to Japan, which runs until September 18, forms part of South Africa’s broader strategy to deepen partnerships on science, technology, and innovation. Gina is scheduled to engage with Japanese officials, academic institutions, and commercial entities on topics including nanotechnology, carbon recycling, astronomy, and space science technologies.

The meetings coincide with preparations for Expo 2025 Osaka, which will showcase global innovations in creating a hydrogen-powered society. Gina emphasized that cross-border collaboration and shared technology development will be critical to ensuring a resilient global energy system.

By aligning its policies with global momentum, South Africa is positioning itself as a key player in the shift toward sustainable fuels and hydrogen, balancing climate action with economic growth.