Sasol has commissioned Envision Energy, a world-leading green technology company and net-zero technology partner to global enterprises, governments and institutions, to undertake a design study for a green hydrogen system at its Sasolburg operations, marking an important step in evaluating pathways to produce lower-carbon fuels and chemicals.

The collaboration was showcased during a visit by South African Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, to Envision's Chifeng Hydrogen Net Zero Industrial Park in Inner Mongolia, during the South Africa-China Energy Investment Conference.

The design study will assess the integration of renewable energy generation, storage and electrolyser technologies to support the production of green hydrogen. Subject to the outcomes of the study and future investment decisions, the green hydrogen could be used in the production of eMethanol and potentially sustainable aviation fuel (eSAF) at Sasolburg.

Sasol is evaluating opportunities to leverage its existing industrial capabilities and infrastructure while assessing technologies that could support its energy transition pathway and future market opportunities.

"The design study with Envision is an important step in assessing how integrated renewables, energy storage and electrolyser technologies could support cost-competitive green hydrogen production at Sasolburg. By drawing on leading global expertise, we can evaluate how these technologies may contribute to future lower-carbon fuel and chemical value chains, while building on Sasol's existing industrial capabilities," said Danie Cronje, Sasol Senior Vice President: Business Building.

“Green hydrogen will play a critical role in reshaping hard-to-abate industries and creating new pathways for sustainable growth. Through AI-powered energy infrastructure and innovative technologies across renewables, storage and green hydrogen, Envision is working with global partners like Sasol to pioneer future energy systems that are infinite, intelligent and inexpensive, accelerating industrial transformation and creating new opportunities for industries and communities worldwide.” said Kane Xu, Senior Vice President and President of International Product Line at Envision Energy.

Envision's solution combines renewable energy resources, battery energy storage systems and electrolysers to optimise green hydrogen production based on forecast energy availability and pricing. The design phase is expected to conclude later this year, providing the technical and commercial information required to evaluate potential next steps.

The collaboration reflects continued engagement between South Africa and China on energy innovation and highlights opportunities to assess technologies that may support industrial competitiveness and future lower-carbon energy solutions.