President Nandi-Ndaitwah reaffirms Namibia’s commitment to green energy sector

By: Hertha Ekandjo

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has reaffirmed the government’s strong support for the green energy sector, emphasising government’s commitment to creating a favourable environment for both local and international investors.

Speaking at the official opening of the HyIron Oshivela Plant, one of the world’s first industrial-scale green iron production facilities, Nandi-Ndaitwah called on global investors to seize the opportunity presented by Namibia’s growing green economy.

“The government’s objective is clear, to create a conducive investment climate that benefits both our people and those who choose to invest in Namibia,” she said.

The President reiterated Namibia is ready for business and welcomes investors who share the same vision for sustainable development.

The President praised HyIron for its leadership and innovation in advancing clean energy technologies, urging others to follow its example.

“I call upon other investors to follow and emulate the exemplary path of HyIron,” she stated. “Namibia’s competitive advantages are clear for all to see.”

She noted that Namibia’s enduring commitment to peace, political stability, and the rule of law has positioned the country as a prime destination for responsible and sustainable investment.

The Oshivela plant is set to reduce carbon emissions by an estimated 27,000 tonnes per year, equivalent to 50% of the total annual carbon dioxide emissions of Namibia’s power industry.

This operation of the plant is powered by an integrated system of renewable energy, including a 25-megawatt solar array and Namibia’s largest industrial-scale battery, capable of storing up to 13 megawatts of electricity. This setup ensures stable and continuous green iron production, even during periods of low sunlight.

James Mnyupe, Namibia’s Green Hydrogen Commissioner, acknowledged the contributions of global partners, including equipment suppliers from China and buyers from Japan, who have expressed interest in using the green iron for eco-friendly car manufacturing.

Germany has been a key partner in the project. In December 2022, German Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, Robert Habeck, presented a €13.7 million (approximately N$270.23 million) grant to support HyIron Oshivela. 17 months later, the plant is already operational.

“This shows how fast things can move when the right partners come together,” said Thorsten Hutter, German Ambassador to Namibia.

The project has already secured its first major offtake agreement with German automotive supplier Benteler, which will purchase 200,000 tons of green iron for use in sustainable vehicle production.

Rainer Baake, Special Envoy of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) emphasized Namibia’s competitive advantage.

“In Germany, companies are struggling to produce 5–10% of their steel with hydrogen—it’s expensive. But here in Namibia, with abundant solar energy, HyIron is producing green hydrogen for under (N$39.96) €2 per kilogram in Phase I, and under €1 (N$19.98) in Phase II,” he explained.

“Compare that to €5–€9 per kilogram projected in Germany by 2030. This is the beginning of a global industrial shift.”

The post President Nandi-Ndaitwah reaffirms Namibia’s commitment to green energy sector first appeared on Future Media News.

The post President Nandi-Ndaitwah reaffirms Namibia’s commitment to green energy sector appeared first on Future Media News.