Belgian shipping giant CMB.TECH, one of the industry’s biggest backers of hydrogen as a future fuel, has celebrated the opening of Africa’s first integrated green hydrogen plant. 

Cleanergy Solutions Namibia, which CMB.TECH has developed with Ohlthaver & List, Namibia’s largest conglomerate, was opened yesterday by Dr Elijah Ngurare, the country’s prime minister. 

The new site features a solar-powered, off-grid electrolyser that produces green hydrogen, a refuelling station for hydrogen-powered vehicles and industrial applications, and a hydrogen academy to train Namibians in hydrogen technologies.

Alexander Saverys, CEO of CMB.TECH, said the facility is a model for sustainable energy and a symbol of strong African-European ties.

In 2026, the hydrogen activities will expand into rail and maritime applications. 

A multi-purpose harbour vessel powered by dual fuel hydrogen engines is currently being built in the Netherlands and will be deployed in Walvis Bay port later next year.