:
By Dr. Emmanuel Olusegun Ogundimu
As the world confronts the urgent need for clean, sustainable energy, research and innovation are proving essential in reshaping global energy systems. One key figure leading this charge is Dr Emmanuel Olusegun Ogundimu, a postdoctoral research fellow at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), South Africa. His work in green hydrogen technology is helping drive Africa’s transition to cleaner, more resilient energy—especially in rural communities.
Dr Ogundimu’s research centres on green hydrogen as an affordable and accessible energy carrier. Green hydrogen is produced by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using electrolysis, powered entirely by renewable energy sources like solar or wind. When generated this way, hydrogen production emits no carbon, making it an ideal solution for decarbonising power systems.
The stored hydrogen can later be converted back into electricity using fuel cells. This makes it a flexible energy source for off-grid regions, particularly those without reliable access to electricity.
Among his standout projects is the creation of a low-cost hydrogen fuel cell inverter. Designed with rural communities in mind, the system integrates hydrogen fuel cells with renewable energy technologies. It offers a continuous power supply independent of the national grid, providing a reliable solution for homes, schools, and clinics.
Compact, durable, and easy to deploy, this inverter is particularly suited to areas lacking conventional infrastructure. It enables consistent access to power, helping to bridge the energy gap in underserved communities.
The system also models a circular and sustainable approach to energy. During the day, solar panels meet immediate electricity needs while also powering electrolysis to produce hydrogen. The hydrogen is stored in tanks and used at night or during cloudy periods to generate power through the fuel cell.
By harnessing sunlight and water—both widely available in Africa—this model ensures a dependable, clean energy supply throughout the day and night.
Beyond its technical advantages, the project addresses real social and economic challenges. Many African communities still rely on costly, polluting diesel generators or limited-capacity batteries. Hydrogen, by contrast, provides long-term energy storage with minimal loss over time.
Additionally, the system incorporates water purification and condensation features, creating a closed-loop that reduces dependence on external water sources. This is especially valuable in water-scarce environments.
The potential of Dr Ogundimu’s research is far-reaching. If widely adopted, compact hydrogen-based systems could reduce energy poverty, improve healthcare delivery, enhance education, and boost local economies. Because they rely on renewable inputs, they are inherently sustainable and support global climate goals.
These technologies are also adaptable. Their modular design allows for adjustments based on local conditions, making them both culturally relevant and environmentally appropriate.
As the push toward net-zero emissions intensifies, inclusive and accessible clean energy solutions are more critical than ever. Dr Ogundimu’s work ensures that Africa is not just part of the global energy transition—but a leader in it.
Through mentorship, international partnerships, and deep community engagement, he is inspiring a new wave of African scientists and engineers committed to clean energy innovation.
His pioneering efforts in green hydrogen technology are lighting a path toward energy security, environmental resilience, and economic empowerment across the continent. With continued support for research and collaboration, his vision of a sustainable energy future for Africa is steadily becoming reality.
_____________________
Dr. Emmanuel Olusegun Ogundimu is a postdoctoral researcher fellow within the Green Hydrogen Research Group at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), South Africa
