Itochu partners Hive Hydrogen for green ammonia project in South Africa

Japanese corporation Itochu has partnered with renewable energy firm Hive Hydrogen to develop a green ammonia production facility in South Africa. PHOTO: Aerial view of South Africa's Durban port landscape. Getty Images

The two firms have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) to jointly consider developing a green ammonia production unit at Coega located in Nelson Mandela Bay in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province. 

They plan to produce green ammonia by utilising South Africa's abundant renewable energy sources (wind and solar) and use existing port facilities for green ammonia exports.

This project will further boost the development of an international supply chain for marine green ammonia, ITOCHU says. Green ammonia as a bunker fuel is one of the best options for decarbonising shipping because of its zero-emission properties.

Itochu's announcement comes after Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry signed an MOC with the Republic of South Africa in September to collaborate in the field of hydrogen and ammonia.

By Manjula Nair

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