HyTrA

The initial situation

South Africa faces major challenges in terms of secure and climate-friendly energy supply. Frequent power outages, outdated infrastructure and a high proportion of fossil fuels are jeopardising the economy and the environment. Although the share of renewable energies is growing, it is not sufficient to guarantee security of supply. The expansion of decentralised power generation is an important component of a stable and climate-friendly energy supply and is being specifically promoted by politicians.

The approach

The HyTrA (Hydrogen Tryout Areal) project developed a modular microgrid that combines photovoltaics, battery storage and hydrogen technology. At its heart is HyGrid, a robust and cost-effective system specially designed for markets such as South Africa. It combines electrolysis, hydrogen storage and fuel cells, enabling a CO₂-neutral, off-grid power supply.

In addition, HyWindow, a digital twin that virtually maps operations, optimises processes and enables training, was created. Furthermore, HyFrame created the socio-economic framework for knowledge transfer, acceptance and local value creation.

The objectives and measures

The objective was to demonstrate hydrogen-based microgrids in South Africa in practice and to lay the foundations for their dissemination and transfer. A demonstrator was set up and commissioned at the premises of industrial partner Alu-Cab in Cape Town. The system replaces the diesel generator commonly used there and supplies parts of the production facility with stable, emission-free power.

HyWindow monitored energy flows and system states in real time, supported optimisation and served as a training platform for skilled workers and students. Within HyFrame, the project organised workshops, training courses and innovation formats with partners such as the University of Stellenbosch and the Hasso Plattner Institute in Cape Town.

In addition, the project designed mobile, cost-effective H₂ microgrids for self-sufficient supply and increased supply security in industrial companies. It identified local requirements and areas of application and won over local companies to take on component manufacturing, assembly and installation in order to establish collaborative value chains.

The results

HyTrA demonstrated the technical reliability and economic viability of hydrogen-based microgrids under real-world conditions. The demonstrator supplies Alu-Cab with stable, quiet and CO₂-neutral power.

The HyWindow digital reference system accelerated operation and maintenance, enabled remote services and strengthened training and qualification. HyFrame anchored the technology in industry, politics and education, increased acceptance and laid the foundation for local value creation.

Recommendations for action address scaling in structurally weak regions, appropriate regulatory incentives and technology-neutral financing models such as leasing and power purchase agreements. Prospects include more efficient storage, materials research, cross-sector integration such as waste heat utilisation and e-mobility, and greater integration into European research networks.