Hive Hydrogen South Africa has kicked off the hunt for engineering partners to deliver its massive $5.8 billion green hydrogen plant in the Eastern Cape, taking a major step toward one of the country’s most ambitious clean energy ventures.

The company a joint venture between UK-based Hive Energy and South Africa’s BuiltAfrica Group has shortlisted 15 engineering firms from an original pool of 48, signaling serious momentum for the project at Coega in South Africa.

A final investment decision is expected by Q3 2026, with production slated to begin three years later. Once operational, the facility will churn out over 1 million tons of green ammonia annually. This hydrogen-derived product, made by combining hydrogen with nitrogenvis far easier to store and ship making it ideal for global export, reported Bloomberg.

With abundant solar and wind energy resources, South Africa is positioning itself as a key global player in green hydrogen, rivaling countries like Namibia. The fuel, generated by splitting water using renewable energy, is being championed as a cleaner alternative for hard to abate sectors like heavy industry and maritime transport.

But challenges loom. Skeptics question whether green hydrogen can ever beat fossil fuels on cost. Still, Hive Hydrogen remains confident. It claims the Coega project is the most advanced green hydrogen initiative in the country, aimed squarely at export markets such as Japan and South Korea. The project is drawing international attention, with engineering firms from East Asia, Europe, and the UK expressing strong interest, according to South Africa’s trade and industry department.

Hive Hydrogen’s rivals are also making moves. Sasol is eyeing a facility at Boegoebaai on the northeast coast, while ArcelorMittal South Africa is weighing green hydrogen to revive a dormant steel plant on the west coast. South Africa’s green hydrogen race is officially on—and Hive Hydrogen is charging out in front.

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Hive Hydrogen Invites Proposals for $5.8 Billion South Africa Plant