HDF energy plant to generate 10% of nation’s power needs

French energy company Hydrogène de France (HDF) Energy is progressing on its Renewstable project at Swakopmund, integrating solar energy, battery storage, and green hydrogen technology.

Covering 400 hectares, the plant is expected to generate 142 gigawatt-hours of clean electricity annually, meeting nearly 10% of Namibia’s power needs.

The N$4.5 billion investment, largely backed by foreign direct investment, aligns with Namibia’s Vision 2030 and Green Hydrogen Strategy.
During a site visit by a European Union (EU) delegation, HDF Energy director Nicolas Lecomte emphasised international partnerships in realising the project.

“We are in the final stages of negotiating commercial terms, and the last step before investment and construction is securing this agreement, which we hope to finalise this year,” he said.

He acknowledged the EU’s crucial support through grants and subsidies, ensuring competitive electricity tariffs for Namibia.

“The coast is a major load centre, yet most electricity comes from other parts of the country. This project will bring power directly to where it is needed,” Lecomte noted.

HDF Energy is working with NamPower to finalise operational plans, including power dispatching schedules and grid integration.
The project will generate approximately 2 000 jobs across direct, indirect and induced employment, with at least 600 jobs created during construction and operation.

HDF Namibia country lead Tashiya Walenga says the Swakopmund project could pave the way for further green hydrogen initiatives.

“Our initial aim was to reduce Namibia’s dependence on imported power, which currently accounts for 70% of our energy supply. However, we are also exploring hydrogen-powered rail, maritime transport, and green ammonia production for export,” she says.

Walenga highlights the viability of hydrogen power plants, noting that their simplicity makes them an attractive energy security solution.

“The first large-scale hydrogen power plants will be in Namibia because the technology is ready, economically viable, and addresses an immediate need,” she says.

Construction is expected to commence by late 2025, taking 24 months, with full operations set for 2028.

EU ambassador to Namibia Ana-Beatriz Martins underscores the significance of Namibia’s partnership with the EU in advancing sustainable energy.

“HDF Energy Namibia plays a crucial role in integrating renewable energy into the country’s grid, strengthening its energy mix. Greening the electricity grid will enable Namibian products to be labelled as green, unlocking tax incentives and benefits,” she says.