HYPHEN to implement $9.4bn green hydrogen project in Namibia

The Namibian government has recently awarded a statement of its intention to appoint Hyphen Hydrogen Energy as the preferred bidder to develop the country's first large-scale vertically integrated green hydrogen project. This groundbreaking project aims to revolutionize the energy sector in Namibia, utilizing renewable resources such as wind and solar power to produce green hydrogen, a clean fuel source with zero carbon emissions. In a recent interview with Marco Rafinelli, Chief Executive Officer of Hyphen, he shed light on the significance and potential impact of this ambitious endeavor. Green hydrogen, as explained by Rafinelli, is produced by separating hydrogen from water and using renewable energy sources to power the process, thereby eliminating carbon emissions. Over the years, the technology to produce hydrogen cost-effectively has been a challenge, leading to a reliance on fossil fuels. However, with the declining costs of renewable energy production, green hydrogen production is becoming more affordable. Namibia, with its abundant solar and wind resources, is an ideal location for such a project due to its potential for cheap energy production. The $9.4 billion investment required for the project will be funded through a feasibility study to prove the sustainability of the environment, technical designs, and engagement with the government to secure necessary licenses. Hyphen plans to collaborate with partners to share the financial burden and has already received interest from various financial institutions. The economic impact of the project is expected to be transformative for Namibia, with an estimated 15,000 direct jobs during the construction phase and 3,000 permanent jobs once operational. The ripple effects on the economy, such as the establishment of wind blade manufacturing, will further contribute to job creation and industrialization. The transfer of knowledge and skills to local businesses and the community is a key focus for Hyphen, with plans to train and empower local Namibians throughout the project's 40-year duration. The goal is to have over 90% of the workforce in phase one comprised of local talent, paving the way for long-term empowerment and economic growth. The project's potential to position Namibia as a leader in green hydrogen production and create a sustainable energy future is a promising prospect for the country's economy and its people.