While over 80% of Zambians rely on charcoal and firewood for cooking, despite the country’s largely renewable electricity grid, a new study explores green hydrogen as a cleaner, scalable alternative. The research found that using Zambia’s hydropower-dominated grid to produce green hydrogen is more cost-effective and inclusive than building stand-alone solar systems. Green hydrogen, made from water and renewable energy, could drastically cut indoor pollution, reduce deforestation, and offer affordable cooking fuel—especially if supported by targeted policies. Crucially, the study warns against export-only green hydrogen plans, urging policymakers to prioritize local access and inclusive energy solutions. As costs fall, green hydrogen could help reshape Zambia’s cooking fuel landscape for good.
The Conversation
