Green Hydrogen South Africa, supported by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH, has developed a community development toolkit (CDTK) to assist developers engaging with local communities to develop green hydrogen energy projects.

“The goal of the CDTK is to assist project developers incorporating community development in their planning process from an early stage. The resource will assist project developers in establishing robust and mutually beneficial relationships with host communities. By adapting best practices from established sectors such as mining and energy to the unique needs of the green hydrogen industry, the toolkit ensures accessibility, inclusivity and practicality,” GIZ said in a statement.

Project developers are invited to pilot the CDTK from June until the end of 2025.

“In pursuit of job creation and economic development, it is imperative that all stakeholders derive mutual benefits from the South African green hydrogen economy. To achieve this, projects must secure and uphold a social licence to operate,” GIZ said.

Many ongoing projects are currently in pre-feasibility or feasibility phases. Recently, developers in Gqeberha, Johannesburg and Cape Town had the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the CDTK in preparation for the upcoming piloting phase.

Developers interested in participating in piloting the toolkit can submit an application here or email Steven Hofmann (steven.hofmann@giz.de). More information and a copy of the toolkit can be found here.