H2Map-Educate
Hydrogen Maps and Hydrogen Education to support the intercontinental collaboration and education of Hydrogen Industry
Hydrogen Maps and Hydrogen Education to support the intercontinental collaboration and education of Hydrogen Industry
H2Map-Educate
Africa is rapidly emerging as a central player in the global production of green hydrogen. Nevertheless, pioneer countries like Namibia and South Africa face significant structural hurdles: there is a lack of comprehensive digital infrastructure mapping and in-depth analyses of socio-ecological risks.
The transdisciplinary project H2Map-Educate addresses these challenges directly by linking technological innovation with comprehensive academic and vocational capacity building. Methodologically, the project builds on the experience gained from the German Hydrogen Atlas (Wasserstoffatlas Deutschland) coordinated at FENES and adapts these approaches to the African context.
The project is built upon two interconnected core pillars:
- Hydrogen Mapping WebApp: Development of a modular, open-source online platform that integrates geodata, energy system modeling, and real-time monitoring. It serves as a transparent decision-making basis for investors, researchers, and policymakers expanding the hydrogen economy.
- Learning Factory: Establishment of a physical and digital teaching and experimental environment at the Lüderitz Campus of the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST). Here, accredited curricula and hands-on training programs will be implemented to strengthen local value creation and employment—with an explicit focus on gender equality (targeting a minimum of 40% female participation).
Key Focus Areas and Work Packages
The project is structured into four main strategic pillars:
- Capacity Building and Workforce Training: Establishing the "Learning Factory" at NUST, implementing vocational and higher education programs focusing on the production, safety, and application of hydrogen.
- Socio-Ecological Impact Assessment: Integrating sustainability indicators (e.g., water footprint analysis to avoid local water scarcity, land rights) and conducting participatory stakeholder workshops directly with local and indigenous communities.
- Industry Engagement and Policy Integration: Working closely with industry and political stakeholders to formulate policy recommendations and publish a comprehensive hydrogen industry guideline.
