Hertta-Maria Amutenja
Siemens Energy’s keen interest in exploring opportunities to assemble electrolyzers in Namibia signals a monumental stride towards catapulting the country’s green hydrogen sector into prominence.
The Minister of Mines and Energy, Tom Alweendo, recently embarked on a tour of Siemens Energy’s gigawatt factory in Berlin, where cutting-edge electrolyzer production technologies were showcased, setting the stage for a partnership.
Green Hydrogen Commissioner James Mnyupe, said the visionary move by Siemens Energy aligns seamlessly with Namibia’s burgeoning green hydrogen sector.
“Siemens Energy expressed interest in exploring opportunities to assemble electrolysers in Namibia, aligning with the nation’s rapidly growing green hydrogen sectors,” said Mnyupe.
Adding that the hydrogen sector has reached new heights as it embraces membership in the International Hydrogen Trade Forum (IHTF).
Mnyupe said the invitation to join the IHTF underscores Namibia’s growing influence in the international arena.
“Namibia recognises the IHTF as a significant opportunity to enhance its ongoing efforts in scaling up the trade of hydrogen and its derivatives, fostering closer collaboration with partner nations and the private sector to maximise the environmental and socio-economic benefits of hydrogen trade,” he stated.
Furthermore, Namibia’s inclusion in the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) “Global Programme for Hydrogen in Industry” marks a significant stride towards sustainable industrial development.
Alweendo stated the initiative, supported by Austria, China, Germany, and Italy, prioritises social and environmental considerations, particularly in developing nations, aiming to facilitate a just transition to hydrogen.
In a move towards regional collaboration, Namibia is set to host the Green Hydrogen Programme Symposium from 26 to 28 March 2024. In collaboration with the Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Management (SASSCAL), supported by the German Ministry of Education and Research.
The symposium aims to enhance regional cooperation and knowledge-sharing in the green hydrogen sector.
Moreover, discussions with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) signal Namibia’s commitment to ensuring adherence to international standards for Environmental and Social Sustainability.
The implementation of a Strategic Environmental and Social Assessment (SESA) for identified green hydrogen valleys in Namibia underscores the nation’s dedication to responsible and sustainable development practices.
