STAFF WRITER
THE Namibian Green Hydrogen industry has morphed from a concept to a realistic sector attracting N$3.5 billion in investment promises between 2021 and 2025 ,the recently launched National Development Plan 6 says.
Furthermore N$1.6 billion has already been invested in various projects.
The NDP 6 also noted that Namibiaʼs green industries experienced rapid growth, with several transformative projects underway, and employment and skills development initiatives are being implemented.
According to the NDP6 policy document the period from 2021 to 2025 marked significant progress in laying the foundation for Namibiaʼs green
hydrogen sector, both from a policy perspective and through the initiation of key projects.
“The country has transitioned from conceptualising green industries to launching operating projects. The green hydrogen sector has attracted over N$ 3.5 billion in investment commitments and solidified Namibiaʼs reputation as an investment destination,” the plan noted.
The policy document says approximately 800 direct jobs have already been created, with over 30,000 direct, indirect and induced jobs projected to be created across the value chain by 2030.
“Additionally, in 2024, the Youth for Green Hydrogen Scholarship Programme supported approximately 180
students in acquiring specialised skills, addressing the skills gap in the sector. As a nascent industry,
regulatory frameworks are to be developed,” the NDP 6 said in part.
The NDP 6 document also. Aid Namibiaʼs abundant renewable energy resources have positioned it as a frontrunner in the global green hydrogen economy.
“Leveraging its world-class solar and wind capacity, Namibiaʼs green hydrogen sector has the potential to power sustainable industrialisation, foster job creation, and secure its role as a competitive exporter of green energy and derivatives. Green hydrogen provides a balanced pathway for economic diversification, infrastructure development, and the realisation of Namibiaʼs long-term development goals, ensuring a just and inclusive transition for all citizens,” the policy noted in part.
Some of the key projects that have taken off include Daures Green Hydrogen Project, Cleanergy Solutions Namibia Project, Hyphen Hydrogen Energy Project, Envision-Zhero Ammonia Plant, Hydrogen De France (HDF) Project and the HyIron Oshivela Project.
The NDP 6 also put emphasis on the Development of the Namibia Green Hydrogen and Derivatives Strategy (2022), outlining Namibiaʼs vision to become a global player in green hydrogen production and export.
It also calls for the creation of a Green Industrialisation Blueprint (2024), which aligns with the Special Economic Zones (SEZs) Bill to create investment-ready zones for green hydrogen.
“The development of new port infrastructure, pipelines, distribution, and storage facilities tailored for green hydrogen and its derivatives is expected to drive substantial economic growth.
These investments will enhance production, transportation, and storage capabilities while creating significant gross fixed capital formation (GFCF). Common user infrastructure (CUI) will be a critical component, facilitating shared access for multiple project developers, maximising efficiency, reducing costs, and minimising environmental impacts,” the policy document said.
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