Hydrogen Senegal Joins The African Hydrogen Partnership
The African Hydrogen Partnership (AHP), the only continent-wide African association dedicated to green and natural hydrogen, has announced that Hydrogen Senegal has joined the growing number of AHP members.
Senegal’s strategic location
Senegal is located on the westernmost point of Africa, making it a major shipping hub for trade between Africa, Europe, and the Americas. Port Dakar is one of the busiest ports in Africa and handles a significant volume of cargo.
The Port of Dakar has a deepwater port capable of handling large vessels, making it an ideal destination for international shipping. Senegal’s mining activities are focused on phosphate and limestone.
While phosphate is needed for producing phosphorus fertilisers, limestone is required for producing cement. Renewable energy and clean hydrogen are not just a necessity but also an opportunity for economic growth of Senegal.
Comments from the leaders
Charalampos (Charis) Chatzimarkakis (CEO at Hydrogen Senegal) commented, “Senegal is one of the leading producers of high quality phosphates in the world. Using its renewable energy sources and minerals, Senegal could become a leading producer of green Urea, Monoammonium phosphate (MAP) or Diammonium phosphate (DAP).
The International Maritime Organisation’s 2023 GHG Strategy aims for net zero emissions from international shipping by or around 2050. The Poseidon Principles Association aims to enable financial institutions to align their ship finance portfolios with responsible environmental behaviour and incentivise international shipping’s decarbonisation.
The transition is gaining traction. This development offers great opportunities for Senegal which could become a major producer and provider of hydrogen fuel for the global shipping industry. I am delighted that Hydrogen Senegal has joined the growing number of AHP members.”
Dr Innocent Uwuijaren (AHP Director, AHP Chairman | CEO at Cheranna Energy) stated: “On behalf of the entire association, I would like to extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to Charis and the Hydrogen Senegal team. Senegal’s economy has been growing steadily in recent years, with GDP growth averaging over 5% per year.
“This growth is being driven by a number of factors, including increased investment in infrastructure, tourism, and agriculture. The global economy is changing. The transition to green energy has gained a lot of momentum. Hydrogen will be an essential part of the transition process and needed for supporting the growth of Senegal’s rapidly expanding economy.
“Hydrogen Senegal’s skills and expertise will be a valuable asset to the AHP, and we look forward to seeing the contributions Hydrogen Senegal will make in the months and years to come.”
Prof Bamidele Adebisi (AHP Director, AHP University Board Member | Head of Smart Infrastructure and Industry Research (SIIR) Group at Manchester Metropolitan University) explained: “I am delighted that Hydrogen Senegal joined the AHP. Senegal is heavily reliant on imported fossil fuels, which makes it vulnerable to price fluctuations and supply disruptions.
“ Investors are increasingly aware of the risks associated with climate change and are reluctant to invest in projects that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Governments are implementing stricter regulations on fossil fuel projects, making them more expensive and time-consuming to develop.
“Investors are increasingly pressured by their stakeholders to divest from fossil fuels and invest in sustainable energy sources. The change is already happening in Africa. It has become more challenging for African companies to raise capital for projects that rely heavily on fossil fuels. Hydrogen technology can help Senegal to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and improve its energy security. We are thrilled to have you join our team and contribute your unique talents and perspectives to our organisation.”
