Namibia’s Renewable Energy Future Highlighted in IEA Report at African Energy Week 2024
At the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2024 conference, the International Energy Agency (IEA) unveiled its ‘Renewable Energy Opportunities Report for Namibia,’ shedding light on the country’s immense renewable energy potential.
The report emphasizes Namibia’s path towards a sustainable energy future, detailing the benefits of expanding solar, wind, and green hydrogen initiatives. This transition could reduce Namibia’s high electricity costs, currently the highest in Southern Africa, and decrease its reliance on energy imports, which account for 60-70% of the country’s total energy supply.
“By embracing decentralized energy solutions, we can ensure rural communities have access to power, helping to close the gap where nearly 45% of Namibians still live without electricity,” said Tom Alweendo, Namibia’s Minister of Mines and Energy, at the report’s launch.
Namibia’s remarkable solar irradiance and wind conditions place it in a prime position to become a regional leader in renewable energy, with a goal to achieve 70% renewable energy by 2030. The report presents a strategic roadmap for harnessing these resources to fuel industrialization and enhance energy security.
“Renewable energy will not only lower costs but will also create significant economic opportunities. The integration of renewables in our mining sector could enhance competitiveness in global markets,” Alweendo added.
The report also highlights Namibia’s green hydrogen ambitions, with plans for large-scale hydrogen production to position the country as an international energy exporter. However, the absence of a domestic hydrogen market means the initial production will focus on exports, necessitating substantial investments in port infrastructure and ammonia handling.
IEA Deputy Executive Director, Mary Burce Warlick, praised Namibia’s ambitious strategy, noting its potential to play a pioneering role in the renewable hydrogen sector.
Alweendo concluded, “Our commitment to renewable energy is strong. This report, backed by high-quality data, proves that we are on the right path towards a sustainable energy future for Namibia.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
