fuel cell

South Africa's Anglo American Platinum has launched the prototype of the first fuel cell powered underground locomotive, in a bid to demonstrate the viability of platinum-based fuel cells as an alternative energy source while helping the country meet its energy and job creation challenges.

Engineering whizzkid Siyabulela Lethuxolo Xuza is a young man with a big future - still in his early twenties, he's won gold medals in international science competitions, been accepted to study at Harvard, and is now a role model for South Africa’s aspiring scientists.
• SA women lead the way in science

Mobile telecommunications company Vodacom has set a new record by claiming the most prestigious accolade in the green building industry.
• Green buildings now the law in SA

By John Battersby

South Africa’s rural communities may soon have access to a new, greener form of transport, following the recent launch of the country’s first hydrogen-powered bicycle.
• World’s first hybrid sports car in SA

South Africa is moving into the fast-evolving field of nanotechnology with the establishment of the country’s first two nanotechnology centres in Gauteng province.

South Africa's rich platinum reserves could make it a key player in a major future energy source - fuel cell technology. At least, that's the perspective of some. Others argue that fuel cells won't quite spell a platinum paradise, but could be used productively in a combination of next-generation energy solutions.