SASOLBURG – South Africa has taken a decisive step toward building the skills pipeline required for the green hydrogen economy, with the successful implementation of an industry-integrated Green Hydrogen Fuel Cell Training System at Sasol’s operations in Sasolburg.
The initiative, led by the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority in partnership with Sasol, marks a significant milestone in advancing the country’s green hydrogen capabilities.
The project follows a multi-year commitment between the two organisations. In April 2024, CHIETA and Sasol initiated collaboration on the development of the training system.
This was followed by CHIETA’s approval of R1.8 million in funding in 2025 to enable its implementation.
Developed in collaboration with global fuel cell education specialists Heliocentris, the system provides a realistic, hands-on platform designed to equip learners with practical competencies in hydrogen fuel cell technology.
Technology and applied experimentation
At its core is a working 50W hydrogen fuel cell system, allowing learners to engage directly with the technology and understand key system functions through applied experimentation.
The programme is further strengthened by complementary training in solar PV and hydrogen system fundamentals, positioning it within the broader renewable energy and electrical trades ecosystem.
The training system is specifically designed to bridge the gap between theory and industrial application, build foundational skills for emerging roles in the hydrogen economy, and ensure safe, scalable training aligned with industry standards.
“This is what execution at speed looks like,” said CHIETA CEO Yershen Pillay.
“We didn’t just talk about green hydrogen — we funded it, built it, and delivered it. Because in the green hydrogen economy, no skills means no transition.”
Sasol, which is positioning itself as a fast follower in the global hydrogen economy, underscored the importance of aligning skills development with evolving market demands.
The initiative also addresses key industry constraints, including stringent safety requirements and the integration of hydrogen technologies into existing disciplines such as electrical engineering.
The project highlights the critical role of public–private partnerships in accelerating South Africa’s readiness for the energy transition.
As global investment in green hydrogen continues to gain momentum, initiatives such as this position South Africa not only as a participant in the emerging market, but as a producer of the skills required to sustain and grow it.
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