Infrastructure expert Mouhamadou War from Senegal

Mouhamadou War is currently participating in the International Master Program in Energy and Green Hydrogen (IMP-EGH) at RWTH Aachen University and Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar. The 27-year-old, who specializes in the field „economy, policy, and infrastructure of green hydrogen“, shares his experiences in the IMP-EGH with us.

1. Please describe in 5 sentences what your Master's thesis is about.

My topic focuses on potential business models for exporting green hydrogen from Senegal to Germany. The Business Model Canvas (BMC) by Osterwalder is used to systematically analyze the key elements of this cross-border value chain. Senegal can produce, store, and transport green hydrogen using its resources to meet Germany's increasing import demand. The BMC helps identify the value propositions, customer segments, key resources, and partnerships needed for a sustainable business model. This enables German importers to integrate the hydrogen supply into their energy systems.

2. In your opinion, what is the most important use of green hydrogen?

For me, the most important use of green hydrogen is to decarbonize energy intensive industries, such as steel production, heavy duty transport and chemical manufacturing. Green hydrogen can also replace hydrogen produced from fossil fuels such as coal. Derivates from Green Hydrogen such as ammonia can also be used for agricultural purposes.

3. What has been your most memorable experience during your Master's Program?

My most memorable experience in this master's program is the opportunity to learn English. These four months of classes helped me overcome the language barrier and connect with the English-speaking world. Throughout the program, I gained valuable knowledge through diverse modules, especially in energy supply security, hydrogen, and fuel cell technologies. A highlight was my specialization at Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar, where I learned from experienced African and European professors, deepening my understanding of energy management and system modeling. This experience has prepared me for the job market and future research. Overall, the program enriched me culturally, fostering teamwork and versatility to achieve shared goals.

4. What advice would you give to a future student in the field of green hydrogen?

My advice to future students: Believe in yourself and chase your goals. Also, always ask questions when you have doubts.

5. What are your professional plans/ideas for the future? 

My plan for the future is to gather the necessary experience to invest in renewable energy and green hydrogen production by creating my own Energy firm.

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