Namibia achieves historic first in green hydrogen production

Namibia has taken a groundbreaking step towards a green industrial future with the successful production of its first green hydrogen at HyIron’s Oshivela plant. This milestone positions Namibia as a leader in Africa’s renewable energy transition, leveraging advanced electrolyser technology from China’s Peric Hydrogen Systems to drive sustainable industrialization.

On March 12, 2025, HyIron’s Oshivela facility officially commenced green hydrogen production using a 12MW electrolyser—the largest of its kind in Southern Africa. This development is a testament to Namibia’s commitment to green energy and its aspirations to become a global hub for sustainable industrial practices.

The project, backed by the Namibian government and supported by over 60 local Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), integrates a cutting-edge renewable energy infrastructure. The facility is powered entirely by a 25MW solar farm and supported by 13.4MW of battery storage, enabling operations to run exclusively on clean energy.

HyIron is pioneering the use of green hydrogen in industrial processes, beginning with the production of Direct Reduced Iron (DRI). The Oshivela plant is set to produce approximately 15,000 tonnes of iron annually, starting at an initial capacity of five tonnes per hour. This marks a crucial step towards reducing emissions in the traditionally carbon-intensive iron and steel industry.

Read also: Africa set to kickstart 41 Green Hydrogen Projects by 2030: Report by EIC

This achievement is a pivotal moment for HyIron and for Namibia’s green industrialization ambitions. They are now in the process of gradually scaling up the electrolyser to its full capacity, laying the foundation for zero-emission iron production

The success of the Oshivela project has been made possible through strong partnerships. Namibia’s national green hydrogen initiative has provided vital support, while the involvement of over 60 Namibian SMEs underscores the project’s role in fostering local expertise and economic growth.

International collaboration has also played a key role, with Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) supporting the initiative. Additionally, HyIron has secured a major offtake agreement with German metals processing company Benteler for 200,000 tonnes per year of hydrogen-reduced iron, reinforcing Namibia’s position as a reliable supplier of sustainable industrial materials.

Construction of the Oshivela plant began in April 2024, and in under a year, it has successfully commenced operations. This rapid development highlights Namibia’s capability to execute large-scale renewable energy projects efficiently, setting an example for other African nations aiming to harness their renewable resources for sustainable industrialization.

As HyIron continues to scale up production, the Oshivela plant stands as a beacon of innovation, showcasing how Africa can lead in the global shift towards green hydrogen and clean industrial processes. With Namibia at the forefront, the continent is steadily advancing toward a more sustainable and economically resilient future.

Cover photo: By ASM