⎪ PowerGen,PetroChem and Sustainable energy management ⎪
Centre of excellence for hydrogen energy launched
Standard Bank, in partnership with the Vaal University of Technology (VUT), have announced the official launch of the Standard Bank Centre of Excellence for Hydrogen Energy. This pioneering initiative marks a significant step towards advancing research, innovation, and sustainable practices in South Africa’s hydrogen energy sector.
T he recently launched Standard Bank Centre of Excellence for Hydrogen Energy, made possible through Standard Bank’s support for Phase 1 of the project, will serve as a catalyst for clean energy solutions, positioning VUT as a global leader in hydrogen energy research. The initiative, which was first soft-launched in March of this year, aligns with Standard Bank’s commitment to driving Africa’s green transition and contributing to a just energy future. Simone Cooper, Head of Business and Commercial Banking at Standard Bank South Africa, says: “Hydrogen energy is one of the most exciting frontiers in South Africa’s jour- ney to a sustainable future. By investing in this Centre of Excellence, Standard Bank is helping unlock the potential of research, academia and finance working together to solve press - ing energy challenges. Our commitment is not only to back innovation but also to ensure that solutions are inclusive, scalable and capable of driving economic growth across the country
and continent.” Professor Khehla Ndlovu, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the VUT, emphasised the strategic importance of the partnership. “The Centre of Excellence for Hydrogen Energy represents a milestone in VUT’s research journey. By combining academic expertise with Standard Bank’s leadership in sustain- able finance, we are positioning South Africa at the forefront of hydrogen energy innova- tion. This initiative will not only contribute to global research but also open new pathways for collaboration, investment, and economic development. Importantly, it will inspire our students and community to see themselves as active participants in shaping a sustain- able future.” The Centre has already attracted strong international interest, including partners from Europe, Asia and Latin America, highlighting its potential to drive meaningful impact both regionally and globally. With the support of Standard Bank, VUT is the only African member of a 13-partner
European consortium exploring hydrogen in- novation, thereby placing South Africa firmly on the global map of clean energy research. https://vut.ac.za Simone Cooper, Head of Business and Commercial Banking at Standard Bank South Africa.
Hitachi electrifies Geita Gold Mine
Hitachi Energy has announced the deploy- ment of its power quality solution to securely connect Tanzania’s leading gold producer, Geita Gold Mine Limited (GGML), to the na- tional grid, which comprises 45.5% renewable energy sources. The project replaced 80% of the fossil-fuel generators used by GGML for power generation and is expected to reduce the site’s carbon emissions by at least 50 000 tons of CO2 per annum. AngloGold Ashanti plc, the owner of GGML, collaborated with the government of Tanzania, its power utility Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO), and Hitachi Energy to execute the project. As part of the project, Hitachi Energy deliv- ered a state-of-the-art power electronic con- verter that stabilises the mine’s connection to the grid, featuring a PCS 6000 STATCOM system. The system’s performance is further optimised through MicroSCADA, which pro- vides crucial real-time monitoring and control. With extensive project execution capabili- ties, Hitachi Energy engaged with partners in
Tanzania, providing supervision and training to contractors, fostering skills development, and contributing to community upliftment. The company strengthened local capacity through these efforts, ensuring long-term success and sustainability while delivering cutting-edge technology. "We are proud to support Geita Gold Mine Limited in this landmark achievement. AngloGold Ashanti’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and climate resilience across their business, value chain and communities sets a remarkable standard in the industry," said Mohamed Hosseiny, Managing Director at Hitachi Energy in Africa. "It is reassuring that our pioneering technologies and solu- tions are advancing a sustainable energy future for all." The project is a testament to Hitachi Energy's expertise in providing solutions, executing projects, and developing pioneer- ing technologies. The PCS 6000 STATCOM system was pre-assembled, tested to the high- est standards, and shipped as a containerised
package for fast installation on-site. Its com- pact design and adaptability to harsh mining environments make it a compelling solution for industrial and remote grid applications. Electrification solutions, such as the STATCOM system, are crucial to accelerating the global energy transition. By delivering in- novative technology to high-impact markets, Hitachi Energy empowers the world’s energy system to be more sustainable, secure, resil- ient, and affordable. www.hitachienergy.com/africa/en Hitachi Energy has delivered a state-of-the-art power electronic converter that stabilises the mine's connection to the grid.
November-December 2025 • MechChem Africa ¦ 33
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