South Africa's green hydrogen economy ambitions have received a boost as the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA) and Sasol have implemented an industry-integrated green hydrogen fuel cell training system at Sasol's operations in Sasolburg.
This initiative is an important 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 started a collaboration to develop a training system.
Following which, CHIETA received approval for R1.8m in funding over 2025 to enable its implementation.
Equipping learners with practical skills
Developed in collaboration with global fuel cell education experts Heliocentris, the system provides a realistic, practical platform that equips learners with practical competencies in hydrogen fuel cell technology.
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 practical experimentation.
The program is further strengthened by complementary training in the fundamentals of solar PV and hydrogen systems, setting it within the broader renewable energy and electricity business ecosystem.
The design of the training system bridges the gap between theory and industrial application, builds foundational skills for emerging roles in the hydrogen economy, and ensures safe, scalable training in line with industry standards.
“This is what execution at speed looks like,” said Yersen Pillay, CEO of CHIETA.
“We didn’t just talk about green hydrogen – we financed it, built it and delivered it.
“Because in the green hydrogen economy, no skills means no transition.”
Sasol, which is establishing itself as a fast follower in the global hydrogen economy, underlined the importance of aligning skills development with emerging market demands.
The initiative also addresses key industry barriers, including stringent safety requirements and the integration of hydrogen technologies into existing disciplines such as electrical engineering.
The project highlights the important role of public-private partnerships in accelerating South Africa's preparation for the energy transition.
As global investment in green hydrogen gathers pace, initiatives like this position South Africa not only as a participant in the emerging market but also as a creator of the skills needed to sustain and grow it.
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