Cleanergy Solutions Namibia And CMB.TECH’s Green Hydrogen Breakthrough: Harnessing Solar Power For A Sustainable Future

Cleanergy Solutions Namibia is a partnership between the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group and CMB.TECH has celebrated the groundbreaking of Africa’s inaugural public green hydrogen refuelling station. Located in Walvis Bay, Namibia, this state-of-the-art facility harnesses solar energy for on-site hydrogen production. Expected to be operational by mid-2024, it will supply hydrogen to trucks, port equipment, and railway applications, marking a significant step toward sustainable transportation.

The Cleanergy Solutions Namibia project encompasses a 10-hectare solar park featuring a hydrogen production facility equipped with a 5-megawatt Proton Exchange Membrane electrolyser and a 5-megawatt hour battery. This innovative setup directly utilizes solar energy to produce green hydrogen. The electrolyser converts electricity from the solar park and energy stored in the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) into green hydrogen. A hybrid control system ensures stable production and manages electricity flow, creating a reliable and robust mini-grid. This unique approach positions Cleanergy Solutions Namibia as a leader in renewable hydrogen production.

This project emphasizes inclusivity, aiming to empower the local workforce through upskilling initiatives. Cleanergy Solutions Namibia envisions a brighter, more sustainable future by fostering expertise within the Namibian community.

Since 2021, Ohlthaver & List (O&L) and CMB.TECH have collaborated to leverage its century-long entrepreneurial legacies. This partnership has now materialized into Cleanergy’s inaugural project, marking a remarkable achievement in Namibia’s renewable energy landscape. O&L, renowned for its solar initiatives, brings regional knowledge and experience, while CMB.TECH contributes advanced hydrogen expertise, aligning with its commitment to sustainable technologies.

Sven Thieme, the Executive Chairman of the Ohlthaver & List Group, expressed excitement about the project’s profound impact on Namibia’s economy, job creation, and expertise development. He highlighted the project’s role in demonstrating the feasibility of hydrogen production and expanding knowledge for future endeavors.

CEO of CMB.TECH, Alexander Saverys, emphasized the significance of this investment as Africa’s first major hydrogen production project, proving that green hydrogen can be efficiently produced using renewable African sun. CMB.TECH is actively developing hydrogen-powered applications for maritime and heavy industrial sectors, aligning with global sustainability goals.

Namibia, a stable nation, offers a promising emerging market for green hydrogen, backed by government support. The country’s abundant solar resources make it an ideal location for green hydrogen production. Furthermore, green hydrogen production is emissions-free, contributing to a sustainable energy future.

Namibia’s low population density and advantageous geography provide ample space for large-scale renewable energy projects. The port of Walvis Bay enhances its potential as a critical infrastructure hub in Sub-Saharan Africa, facilitating the transportation of clean fuels via major shipping routes. Additionally, the plant’s location along the proposed Trans-Kalahari highway/railway line positions the refuelling station as a strategic hub for the future.

Cleanergy Solutions Namibia is dedicated to advancing hydrogen technology through its Hydrogen Academy, nurturing local expertise and training future professionals in hydrogen production and its applications. This initiative aligns with Cleanergy’s commitment to a sustainable future.

The project’s next step involves exploring a partnership with Fortescue to build a green ammonia plant adjacent to the hydrogen production facility. This joint endeavor marks the beginning of a future-oriented cooperation, aiming to establish Walvis Bay as a clean fuel hotspot in Sub-Saharan Africa.