Namibia Green Hydrogen Project Threatens Wildlife

A proposed green hydrogen production facility in Namibia's Tsau ǁKhaeb National Park, a joint venture led by Germany-based Enertrag, is raising environmental concerns despite its economic potential. The project, aiming to produce 3.75 gigawatts of renewable electricity and one million tonnes of green hydrogen by late 2028, involves an investment exceeding $10 billion.

Conservationists warn that the development, planned for a 26,000 sq km protected area, could endanger critically threatened species, including the African penguin and unique succulent plants.

The Namibian Chamber of the Environment (NCE) and the Namibian Foundation for the Conservation of Seabirds (Namcob) have voiced strong opposition, citing potential irreversible damage to biodiversity hotspots within the park and the Namibian Islands’ Marine Protected Area. The NCE suggests the project be labeled "red hydrogen" due to its ecological risks.

Hyphen, the project developer, states that impact assessments are underway and that the southern region of Namibia offers optimal wind and solar resources for competitive global production.

While the project promises significant economic benefits, including an estimated 15,000 construction jobs and substantial investment in a country with a $13 billion annual GDP, youth activists express skepticism regarding long-term benefits and job specifics. The Namibian government holds a 24% stake in the venture, which seeks to establish Namibia as a major exporter of clean-burning fuel.