Green hydrogen downstream opportunities at Boegoeberg Special Economic Zone

Boegoeberg Special Economic Zone – The GH2 hub of Western SADC

Project background

Green hydrogen has many downstream uses that could contribute to the creation of new industries in the Northern Cape and enable the industrialisation of industries nationally.

There is also a potentially lucrative global export market where demand is growing rapidly. The province boasts several competitive advantages for the production of green hydrogen.

High renewable energy potential and established RE industry
Less complex topography
300 km of shoreline
Large mineral deposits
International accessibility

Project location

Boegoebaai is approximately 60 km north of Port Nolloth and 20 km south of the border between Namibia and South Africa in the Richtersveld Local Municipality area.

Project description

The Boegoeberg Special Economic Zone at Boegoebaai in the Northern Cape is envisaged as a hub for the production and export of green hydrogen.

The project is of strategic importance and will enable the overarching attainment of a Just Energy Transition.

Project progress

Sasol has completed the prefeasibility phase of the green hydrogen and renewable energy facility.
Evaluation of port and rail quotation process is complete and Transnet management is assessing approval for port location and successful bidders.
The draft master plan has been developed and initial engagements with various stakeholders (public and private) has commenced.
Agreement for land access has been signed between Northern Cape Economic Development Agency (NCEDA) and the Community Property Association (CPA) as well as NCEDA and Sasol.
Completed prefeasibility designs for the SEZ infrastructure.
Sanral has approved plans to upgrade R382 road.
A fuel-bunkering concept study has been completed and will be published.
Masts are to be erected for wind, bat and bird studies.
Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) for port and SEZ to be issued to market.