#DISRUPTORSDEN : Impact Hydrogen’s Green Hydrogen HyCooker

If you haven’t got at least one of your eggs in the green hydrogen basket, then you are at serious risk of being left behind. Green Hydrogen is infiltrating virtually every industry, both on a utility and a commercial scale and opportunities are emerging for international companies to develop Hydrogen Valleys in resource-rich regions. These regions, more often than not, are in developing countries where green hydrogen initiatives have the potential to significantly contribute to sustainable and economic development through community engagement. 

How, you ask? It’s in the small things. 

Many rural communities across the globe still cook over wood and coal fires, which emit CO2. This method of heat generation aggravates the climate crisis as it generates significant greenhouse gases, causes chronic health issues, and gender inequality as women are burdened with the labour-intensive task of collecting firewood daily, impacting their ability to develop their skills and contribute to economic independence. This has made the implementation of sustainable cooking solutions a hot topic across the globe. 

Impact Hydrogen Africa , a trailblazer in the development of new (small-scale) green hydrogen technology, has collaborated with several partners to create what they call the HyCooker (Prototype can be viewed here). This revolutionary cooking device is powered by the natural gas, green hydrogen, making it a carbon-neutral cooking solution. This innovative device is in its pilot phase and is likely to look and function differently in the months to come.   

One could potentially see a variety of HyCookers, all slightly different, each tailored to a community’s unique local cooking customs and practices. This is where Impact Hydrogen’s mission goes beyond mere product development. Their goal is to keep hydrogen production in-house, ensuring that at the heart of its production lies sustainable local economic growth and development, making green hydrogen valuable for businesses but end-users as well. This manufacturing approach aligns with the company’s commitment to working collaboratively with the communities involved in the manufacturing process.

 “Our overarching goal is to establish a sustainable value chain within the region or country where the HyCooker will be deployed.  This approach not only helps to keep the cost of the HyCooker down but also creates opportunities for training and employment”

said Impact Hydrogen’s Project Manager, Terry Green.

Implementing the HyCooker into developing communities is ultimately aimed at improving quality of life. The HyCooker has the potential to empower communities, and perhaps entire countries through the development of the local infrastructure. This will have a domino effect on social progress and the fostering of economic opportunities. Employment opportunities range from manufacturing, to transport, to distribution, and finally to storage.    Whilst the potential value of the HyCooker is clear, several challenges come with the eventual rollout of the product. Cultural adaptation emerges as a significant hurdle. Introducing the cooker into rural communities requires careful consideration and consistent community engagement for the technology to be effectively adopted. 

Creatures of Habit

Humans are notoriously resistant to change, even when it has the potential to significantly improve our lives. Integrating the HyCooker into communities in developing nations is not going to be an easy task, however, Impact Hydrogen appears prepared to face this challenge head-on. Their solution is focused on active listening, education, and community collaboration. 

“Our team conducts a thorough feasibility study, examining current cooking practices, and environmental conditions, and, crucially, gathering insights  into end-users’ preferences. It’s essential for end-users to be actively involved in this process to ensure that the design and functionality meet their needs.”

No more fire, but still a fire hazard

Introducing a new cooking method involves addressing potential risks, especially when dealing with a substance as novel as hydrogen. Impact Hydrogen places a strong emphasis on safety measures, considering factors such as the colour and smell of the flame, automatic shut-off if the flame extinguishes, device stability, and temperature management. To ensure a seamless transition, the rollout of HyCookers is planned to be accompanied by comprehensive training programs, empowering end-users with the knowledge and confidence to operate and maintain the devices safely.

The HyCooker stands as a symbol of innovation and progress in the renewable energy and sustainability industry. As Impact Hydrogen continues to pioneer the use of green hydrogen in cooking, the HyCooker represents a significant and hopeful step towards a future where communities worldwide can enjoy cost-effective, clean, and sustainable cooking experiences. To make this project a reality, Impact Hydrogen is looking for €100 000 in investment. The team is looking to partner with a number of organisations and institutions including but not limited to; investors, local government agencies, community leaders, learning institutions, renewable energy organisations, green hydrogen producers and storage companies, seaports, and manufacturers specialising in cookers or burners.

If you are interested in partnering with Impact Hydrogen or learning more about their project, get in contact here. 

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