RONN is in formal discussions to commercialize the use of hydrogen energy in Nairobi, Kenya. The talks, which are ongoing with Pauline Muthigani, President of the Nairobi Group, are part of Africa’s initiative to commercialize hydrogen energy use in both mobile and stationary applications across the continent.
According to Ronn Ford, CEO, the proposed alliance will cover three phases. The first phase will involve deploying the company’s class 3-6 hydrogen-electric logistics trucks in an initial pilot program, followed by strategic purchases and deployment throughout Nairobi and other African municipalities. This phase could begin as early as the first quarter of 2024, and RONN will work with the Nairobi and Kenyan governments to secure land, tax, and regulatory concessions.
The second phase of the plan will create and implement a hydrogen hub for mobile and stationary applications, leveraging RONN’s relationships with Bayo-Tech. Muthigani stated that Kenya will have the first electric hydrogen trucks and hydrogen hub, and they are already negotiating concessions from the government to prioritize this under the hydrogen policy in Kenya.
Muthigani anticipates a definitive Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) within two weeks, and she is committed to pushing for the commercialization of hydrogen power to clean the environment and create jobs in Kenya.
Earlier this year, the European Investment Bank (EIB) and Kenya signed a Joint Declaration to strengthen green hydrogen cooperation, advancing projects that will develop green hydrogen as part of the Kenya Energy Roadmap 2040.
Kenya’s President, William Ruto, announced last year that the country aims to produce 30 GW of green hydrogen production after signing a $3.6 billion deal with the UK to fast-track green investments. The UK Government will commit $14.5 million to a new guaranteed company that will lower investment risk and unlock $87.4 million of climate finance for Kenyan projects over three years through collaboration with CPF Financial Services and other private investors.
