CMB.TECH-led joint venture reveals plans for Africa’s first hydrogen-powered vessel

A delegation flew from Belgium to Namibia this week to reveal plans for Africa’s first hydrogen-powered ship.

Cleanergy Solutions Namibia, a joint venture between CMB.TECH and Ohlthaver & List Group, has organized a showcase of Cleanergy Green Hydrogen’s progress at the plant site in Walvis Bay, which is expected to be operational in the fourth quarter of 2024. The facility uses only solar energy for on-site production of green hydrogen and will be used for hydrogen-powered trucks, port equipment, rail applications and small ships.

Highlights of the visit were the ceremony of the first filling of a dual-fuel truck at the hydrogen refueling station and the announcement of plans for the development of Namibia’s first vessel powered by dual-fuel hydrogen engines.

Cleanergy, together with CMB.TECH, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges and Namport, will build on the successful collaboration between CMB.TECH and the Port of Antwerp-Bruges that resulted in the launch of the hydrotug and the world’s first multimodal hydrogen refueling station in the port of Antwerp.

The joint venture now seeks to develop a multi-functional port utility vessel (MPHUV) powered by dual-fuel hydrogen engines. The design of the MPHUV will allow the integration of different equipment necessary for a variety of port operations, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions during operations.

The involvement of the Port of Walvis Bay and Namport will provide input into the vessel specifications during development and refine the concept based on operational experience and user feedback once it is commissioned.

“By harnessing the sun’s infinite energy, we are laying the roots for a greener future, turning our bold vision into an inspiring reality,” said Sven Thieme, CEO of Ohlthaver & List.

“The port of Walvis Bay will also be in a unique position in Africa – our project will allow them to offer low-carbon logistics supply chains to their customers. This will pave the way to attract additional logistics flows and investors,” added Alexander Saverys, CEO of CMB.TECH.

The Cleanergy Green Hydrogen site will also include an on-site Hydrogen Academy. The Cleanergy Solutions team, suppliers, customers, as well as universities and institutes in Namibia and Europe will jointly enhance Namibians’ hydrogen capabilities and diverse economic potential.