African Development Bank Opens $20 Million Green Hydrogen Funding Call

The African Development Bank (AfDB) has launched a competitive Call for Proposals under the SEFA Green Hydrogen Programme, offering USD 20 million in pre-investment financing for green hydrogen projects across Africa.

The initiative targets private developers with early-stage green hydrogen production concepts or derivative applications, including green ammonia for fertilizers and low-carbon maritime fuels. Selected winners will receive reimbursable grants to fund feasibility studies, detailed engineering designs, procurement preparation and transaction advisory services. SEFA plans to support three to five outstanding proposals through the pre-final investment decision phase.

The programme aligns with Africa's renewable energy potential and addresses decarbonization challenges in heavy industries such as steelmaking, cement production and long-haul transportation. According to Dr. Daniel Schroth, Director of the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Department at AfDB, the projects are "critical to driving socio-economic development and positioning Africa as a key player in global clean energy transitions."

Proposals will be evaluated on technical rigor, financial structure and environmental and social safeguards. The bank particularly favors submissions that include community engagement, gender equity and local content provisions. Selected projects will undergo detailed due diligence with AfDB specialists and external experts before moving to Final Investment Decision stages.

The deadline for submissions is early next month. Interested developers are directed to SEFA's online guidelines for complete application requirements and programme details.

Originally reported by Hydrogen Fuel News. Read the full article →