Benefits of hydrogen fuel cells explored

PUPILS at Poelano High School in Ventersdorp are not only experiencing the firsthand benefits of hydrogen fuel cell technology (HFCT), but are also learning about the technology itself.

Science and Technology Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane launched the R10 million renewable energy HFCT system at the school last week.

The 2.5kW HFCT system has given the school’s 486 pupils access to low-cost, offgrid primary clean energy for its lighting needs.

A fuel cell uses a chemical reaction to produce electricity, using hydrogen as the basic fuel with platinum-based catalysts.

The system uses solar photovoltaic panels, which convert energy from the sun to electricity.

Since water is the source of the hydrogen fuel and there were water shortages at Poelano, the Department of Science and Technology installed a borehole to ensure the successful implementation of this project.

HFCT standby power solutions are also quiet, ensuring a non-intrusive standby and potentially primary power solution.

The project was implemented through the Hydrogen SA (HySA) programme, one of the department’s initiatives that promote the use of local platinum group metal (PGM) resources to create knowledge and human resource capacity, enabling the development of high-value commercial activities in hydrogen and fuel cell technologies.

Kubayi-Ngubane said the HySA programme provided huge potential for local manufacturing and mineral beneficiation opportunities, with South Africa endowed with about 75% of global platinum reserves.

“Not only have we been able to provide a locally produced energy solution, through this research and development of a fuel cell, we have also made it possible for South Africa to beneficiate platinum. This is particularly pertinent in this province that is platinum rich,” Kubayi-Ngubane said.

The beneficiation of South Africa’s natural resources was one way in which the country would be able to expand its industrial base.

In this way more jobs will be created, resulting in the reduction of poverty and inequality, she said.

The launch also included an exhibition which showcased a variety of HFCT and solar energy products. The exhibition was open to pupils from schools in the Ventersdorp area.

They also got to interact with the scientists involved in the development of the various technologies.

Grade 12 pupil Mantshonyane Keleabetswe welcomed the development.

“I have learned that science and technology can help bring innovation to communities and this project has made life easy for all of us,” she said.