Hydrogen fuel cell technology deployed to rural areas

Minister of Science and Technology, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, will launch a hydrogen fuel cell technology (HFCT) system at Poelano High, a rural school in Goedgevonden, Ventersdorp, in the North West.

The 2,5 kW system will enable the school to have access to low-cost, off-grid primary power/energy for its information and communication and technology (ICT) and lighting needs.  HFCT standby power solutions are efficient, reliable, safe and, most importantly, quiet, ensuring a non-intrusive standby and – potentially – primary power solution.

The initiative is part of the Department of Science and Technology’s National HFCT Research, Development and Innovation Strategy, branded HySA, which is being implemented by three centres of competence.

The Department of Science and Technology liaised with the Department of Basic Education to establish the project in a disadvantaged community where permanent energy is a challenge.

The project also provides an opportunity to demonstrate to learners, teachers and the community that science can be used to solve socio-economic challenges such as rural electrification.

The launch event will take the form of a public participation programme and include exhibitions showcasing HFCT.

The media are invited as follows:

Date:        Friday, 13 April

Venue:      Poelano High Goedgevonden, Ventersdorp

GPS coordinates 26.1550°S, 26.8943°E

Time:        10:00

For more information contact Thabang Setlhare at 072 659 9690.

Issued by the Department of Science and Technology.