Namibia Greenlights 3GW Solar Plant for Hydrogen and Ammonia

The project, part of the Zhero Molecules Walvis Bay (zMWB) initiative, will span 5,300 hectares across three distinct zones around Walvis Bay—Namibia’s largest port and second-largest city. In addition to the solar farm and a 3,500MWh battery energy storage system, one site will host electrolyzers, desalination and ammonia synthesis facilities, while another will serve as a logistics hub for ammonia storage and export. The ECC also covers the construction of substations, access roads, and 110km of overhead transmission lines to connect the solar plant to downstream green hydrogen and ammonia production.

“The Solar PV site is strategically located in a semi-desert area with high solar radiation and minimal biodiversity as well as being situated near key towns like Walvis Bay, the biggest port in the country,” states the project’s Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP).

“The project will contribute to regional and national economic growth through job creation and promoting socio-economic development.” The ESMP recommended approval of the ECC but also advised MEFT to conduct ongoing environmental inspections “to ensure ongoing compliance with the conditions outlined in the ECC, monitor the effectiveness of mitigation measures and support the long-term environmental sustainability of the project.”

According to IRENA, Namibia’s installed solar capacity was just 163MW at the end of 2024, making this a nearly 20-fold scale-up for the country.