South Africa is set to mark another milestone in its hydrogen economy with the handover of a Mobile Hydrogen Refuelling Station (MHRS) by Science, Technology and Innovation Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina.

The government is also set to formally open the Rapid Prototype Training and Testing Facility (RPTTF) at the North West University (NWU) in Potchefstroom, North West.

RPTTF is a specialised research and development platform designed to accelerate the development, testing, and deployment of hydrogen technologies.

While the country has previously developed fixed hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, the new unit is expected to be the first of its kind in mobile form.

Green energy ambitions

Unlike permanent facilities, the MHRS can be transported and deployed across multiple sites, supporting pilot projects and expanding the practical use of hydrogen-powered mobility as South Africa advances its green energy ambitions.

The MHRS station, completed in February 2025, is the result of a partnership between the HySA Infrastructure Centre of Competence and Toyota South Africa Motors, according to state broadcaster SABC.

The platform is designed to demonstrate hydrogen fuel-cell electric-vehicle technologies, showcasing locally developed intellectual property while strengthening collaboration between the public and private sectors.

It also forms part of broader efforts to build an integrated hydrogen value chain in South Africa.