Green Ammonia for Low Carbon Fertilizer

A targeted solutions for utilising hydrogen from renewable sources to decarbonise fertiliser production in developing countries

Overview

The African agricultural sector holds enormous potential for growth and innovation. However, its development is currently hampered by challenges such as the limited availability of affordable fertilizers and the impacts of climate change. These obstacles hinder farmers from developing resilient farming activities, and also pose imminent threats to food security, the well-being of millions of smallholder farmers and the establishment of sustainable agri-businesses.

Green ammonia is produced using green hydrogen, which is created through electrolysis powered by renewable energy. This low carbon alternative to traditional ammonia-based fertilizers supports more climate-friendly agriculture. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions, green ammonia aligns with global climate goals and decreases the carbon footprint of agricultural practices. Other benefits from green ammonia production can include excess renewable electricity and additional seawater desalination capacity, that could increase supply of potable water and clean electricity to farming and rural communities. Green ammonia can help African nations secure their own food supplies while establishing themselves as pioneers in the global pivot towards low carbon agriculture. 

Approach

UNIDO's Global Programme for Hydrogen in Industry (GPHI), launched in 2021, supports developing countries and transition economies in overcoming obstacles to hydrogen development, with a focus on decarbonizing the chemical and fertilizer industries through green ammonia. By leveraging renewable energy, the program aids partner countries in establishing more climate-friendly agricultural practices, strengthening local food production, and advancing Africa’s industrialization efforts toward secure and self-sustaining food systems.

GPHI promotes green ammonia production from renewable energy, reducing the carbon footprint in agriculture.

This approach enables African nations to establish local fertilizer industries, reducing import reliance and fostering competitive, sustainable agriculture.

Green ammonia integration aids resilient food production, positioning Africa as a leader in low-carbon agriculture.

Estimated implementation duration

3-5 years

Potential locations for implementation:

Africa

Solution Partner(s)

Daures Green Hydrogen Village Namibia

OCP Group

Groupe Chimique Tunisien

Impact

Key Indicators

60% of Africa’s population depends on agriculture, making sustainable fertilizer crucial for food security across the continent.

2% of global GHG emissions come from the fertilizer production

90% emissions reduction is possible with green ammonia compared to conventional production, significantly lowering the carbon impact of fertilizer production and agriculture.

5 M metric tons is the annual fertilizer shortfall Africa faces, which localized green ammonia production aims to bridge sustainably.

20-30% higher crop yields could be achieved through affordable, low-carbon fertilizers, boosting food security for millions.

SDGs:

SDG 2: Zero Hunger

SDG 5: Gender Equality

SDG 7: Affordable and Clean energy

SDG 8: Decent work and Economic Growth

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

SDG 13: Climate action

UNIDO Priorities:

Clean energy and climate action

Thematic Area(s):

Green hydrogen

Sustainable agribusiness

Renewable and clean energy

Quality, trade and standards

Skill development

Job creation

Gender equality and women

Investment promotion

Environmental protection

Policy advisory

Research and statistics

Advocacy

Technology Used

Upstream: Renewable energy generation through wind and solar -> Water provision through sea water desalination -> Hydrogen production through electrolysis

Midstream: Transport (maritime, road, pipelines) and storage

Downstream: Industrial transformation of clean hydrogen, which is then combined with nitrogen to create ammonia without the carbon emissions associated with traditional method steam methane reforming.

Catalytic Outlook

The Programme aims to promote a just transition of industry in developing countries and transition economies by fostering local production and application of green fertiliser, based on hydrogen from renewable sources.

Unique Solution Characteristics

UNIDO’s cooperation with OCP Group as well as technical assistance to the Daures Green Hydrogen Village and Tunisian fertiliser producer GCT offer distinctive solutions integrating green hydrogen production with low carbon agricultural practices.

By promoting the localized production of green ammonia, the initiative empowers communities to produce climate-friendly fertilizers that align with their specific agricultural needs. This localized approach not only reduces reliance on imported fertilizers but also encourages the development of renewable energy infrastructure, creating jobs and stimulating local economies.

Previous Funding Source(s)

N/A

Dedicated Resources

N/A

Overview

Impact

Related Links