E-Thesis 559 views 838 downloads
Possibilities for using Hydrogen as an Energy Innovation and accessibility solution for sustainable development in Africa / EDMOND MKARATIGWA
Swansea University Author: EDMOND MKARATIGWA
DOI (Published version): 10.23889/SUThesis.68883
Abstract
This doctoral research investigates the potential of hydrogen as a transformative energy solution for energy poverty and advance sustainable development in rural communities, aligning with theUnited Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7). It highlights existing research gaps surrounding hydr...
| Published: |
Swansea University, Wales, UK
2025
|
|---|---|
| Institution: | Swansea University |
| Degree level: | Doctoral |
| Degree name: | Ph.D |
| Supervisor: | Barron, A., Forde, E., Shirin, A., and Dunnill, C. |
| URI: | https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa68883 |
| Abstract: |
This doctoral research investigates the potential of hydrogen as a transformative energy solution for energy poverty and advance sustainable development in rural communities, aligning with theUnited Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7). It highlights existing research gaps surrounding hydrogen's application and socioeconomic impacts in African contexts. The study emphasises narrowing the largely binary and siloed approaches to technological and economic development, advocating for collaborative efforts between the Global North and South to eliminate dependency theory ideas, fostering equitable partnerships. The theoretical framework integratescorporate sustainability, sustainable development, and disaster risk reduction as mechanisms for poverty alleviation in Africa. Key objectives include assessing the global energy mix, identifying energyaccessibility gaps in Zimbabwe, and exploring hydrogen's potential as an alternative energy vector. Employing an interdisciplinary approach, the research developed a tailored Alkaline Electrolyser for use in Mukaratigwa Village. Its applicability was evaluated through a mixedmethods strategy that combined technical performance assessments with qualitative ethnographic research to gauge social acceptance.This methodology involved primary data collection from the study location and secondary data from key national energy suppliers and related policy-making institutions, accessed for analysis through acomprehensive literature review, including a global scan of original equipment manufacturers and associated hydrogen brands. Results suggest that hydrogen not only has the potential to improve energy accessibility but significantly mitigate deforestation, fulfilling sustainability criteria outlined in SDG 7. However, the study identifies critical barriers such as regulatory challenges and infrastructuraldeficits, underscoring the need for supportive public policies to stimulate investment in green hydrogen technology. Ultimately, this research informs policy and posits that hydrogen can diversify Africa'senergy portfolio, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals. It advocates for continuous collaboration, foster innovation, and further research to address challenges relevant to hydrogendeployment, aiming to enhance socio-economic development in climate-vulnerable communities. |
|---|---|
| Item Description: |
A selection of content is redacted or is partially redacted from this thesis to protect sensitive and personal information |
| Keywords: |
green hydrogen, energy sustainability, sustainable development, corporate sustainability, CO2 Emissions(net zero target), disaster risk reduction, carbon neutrality, Global South, alternative energy vector, energy poverty |
| College: |
Faculty of Science and Engineering |