Green Hydrogen is a national project that needs the involvement of all Namibians, provided those in charge of overseeing this national project demonstrate transparency, confidence and accountability to adopt a prudent approach.
They must strike a balance between ambition and caution to ensure the green hydrogen dream does not turn into a failed national project.
According to The Namibian, president-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah requires further explanation from government officials in order to feel more confident about this national pursuit.
The president-elect’s demand is both important and reasonable, considering her goals to reform Namibia’s economy and the necessity for a more in-depth discussion and explanation of the green hydrogen matter.
To ascertain whether this national effort would mark a significant change in terms of economic recovery and investor confidence, it is imperative that responsible leaders engage with Namibians on an ongoing basis.
The incoming president and administration will have the opportunity to create the environment for long-term growth and prosperity with well thought-out plans and prompt action.
It’s important to keep in mind that the vision places a strong emphasis on growth and care for Namibians, and it calls on Namibia’s Green Hydrogen Council to rally support for the government’s revolutionary project.
In leadership, there are some things you can’t do with the task force by itself; instead, you need the participation and support of the people of the country.
For Namibia to thrive and for Namibians to advance as a cohesive nation with a clear head and an awareness of green hydrogen’s development, the government and the community must work together. For the benefit of the country and its citizens, leaders must convene and collectively reason.
They must also hear the opinions of the people.
The broad implementation of green hydrogen will not occur overnight, and a number of obstacles must be overcome before the full potential of this technology can be realised.
Furthermore, the news that HyIron-Oshivela has successfully installed 44 000 solar panels on 25 hectares, generating 25 MW of renewable energy, is reassuring. According to HyIron, over 60 small and medium-sized Namibian businesses have been involved in the project, which has created jobs for over 400 Namibians.
Leaders should inform the Namibian people as this is a national project.
The company should share the progress that the nation wants to hear without waiting for the president to visit.
To dispel some misconceptions about the sustainability of green hydrogen, Namibians would also like to be informed about the full scope of green hydrogen across the country and how it will spur economic growth, which is more helpful than organisations keeping successes or failures to themselves.
The Green Hydrogen Council’s commitment to openness and stakeholder inclusivity is crucial as Namibia pursues an ambitious green hydrogen strategy that holds great promise for the country’s people and economy in the long run.
Policies and regulations pertaining to green hydrogen production must also be developed in consultation with the local community.
Production companies need to have robust policy frameworks in place to attract investment, ensure safety and integrate hydrogen into their existing energy systems because the technology is still in its infant stages.
In addition to producing hydrogen, Namibia’s Green Hydrogen Council must establish clear plans for how green hydrogen will fit into their larger energy strategy.
As Namibia is positioned to emerge as a global leader in the production of green hydrogen, this includes regulatory support for renewable energy projects, hydrogen certification and cross-border trade agreements.
The country should also take into account that the global green energy market is heavily regulated, with rapidly shifting policies.
A complicated framework of global regulations, carbon trading systems and possible green hydrogen tariffs must be negotiated by Namibia.
Infractions of these regulations could result in penalties, exclusion from markets or fines – all of which would have a big financial impact.
Moreover, the launch of a scholarship programme to build capacity for Namibians to pursue various green hydrogen-related courses is praiseworthy.
Developing a skilled workforce that includes engineers, technicians, workers and policymakers is essential to the development of a green hydrogen industry.
Although it would be advantageous to lead in hydrogen technology, Namibia has sent young people to study in this field because it has its own set of potential drawbacks with regard to capacity expansion and intellectual property.
Notwithstanding these obstacles, utilising Namibia’s green hydrogen potential is a worthwhile endeavour that calls for a multifaceted strategy.
Namibia could meet its own energy needs with more environmentally friendly alternatives, play a significant part in the global energy transition and set an example for other African nations – if it approaches these challenges with vision and creativity.
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
