South Africa is leveraging its platinum group metals (PGMs) to position itself as a leader in hydrogen technology and clean energy innovation.
A partnership between ET Energies (US) and Isondo Precious Metals will co-develop a next-generation proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyser stack, combining advanced engineering with local beneficiation capabilities.
The collaboration marks a shift toward value-added manufacturing, integrating catalyst production, membrane electrode assembly (MEA) fabrication, testing and PGM recycling within South Africa. It aligns with the country’s Hydrogen Society Roadmap, supporting localisation and industrial growth.
“This partnership represents an important step towards building a competitive and localised hydrogen technology ecosystem. We are positioning our technology to scale from prototype to commercial electrolyser systems while contributing to South Africa’s hydrogen industrialisation strategy,” said Derek Lubie, Chief Executive Officer of ET Energies.
In addition, Isondo Precious Metals Chief Executive Officer, Vinay Somera explained, “Through this collaboration we are building an integrated value chain from catalyst precursor production through to MEA fabrication and PGM recycling, that strengthens supply security while enabling a circular and sustainable hydrogen economy.”
With a focus on performance optimisation, durability testing and pilot deployment, the initiative also embeds a circular economy model, improving sustainability and long-term supply security. As global demand for hydrogen technologies accelerates, the partnership positions South Africa to translate its mineral wealth into a competitive advantage in the energy transition.
