South Africa's rich reserves of platinum make it ideally-placed to exploit the growth of hydrogen fuel cell technologies, according to Professor Vladimir Linkov from the University of the Western Cape.

Speaking at the launch conference for the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection, he said the country has "the potential to become the world leader in the development of fuel cell vehicles", News Time reports.

"There is a clear technological path ahead, and in the long term, the world could be consuming South African fuel cell technologies," explained Professor Linkov.

He suggested that South Africa's "wealth of minerals" presents the country with a "tremendous opportunity", as these are used in many aspects of hydrogen fuel cells.

MISTRA will explore eight research topics over the next year, including the use of minerals such as platinum group metals in fuel cells.

"This is a highly specialised industry which requires expertise and technology at every level, so there is great potential for job and wealth creation in South Africa," the professor added.

Meanwhile, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority has authorised $20 million (£12.3 million) of incentives to encourage large consumers of power, such as hospitals and businesses, to adopt fuel cells, Fuel Cell Today reports.

Source:

Hydrogen Economy Presents Massive Growth Opportunity For South Africa (19/03/11)

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