Plug Power Inc. has announced the successful installation of a 5-megawatt (MW) GenEco electrolyzer for Cleanergy Solutions Namibia’s project at the Hydrogen Dune site near Walvis Bay. The proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzer unit is a key part of an energy complex that combines solar generation, battery storage, and a public refuelling station, forming the first commercial, fully integrated green hydrogen infrastructure on the African continent.
Off-grid energy model
The Hydrogen Dune site includes a 5 MW solar park covering over 6.5 hectares and a 5.9 megawatt-hour (MWh) energy storage system, enabling autonomous hydrogen production. The locally produced hydrogen will be used to power trucks, port and rail equipment, and small vessels operating from the Port of Walvis Bay. The project also includes vehicle conversions for dual-fuel operation with hydrogen and conventional fuels.
The initiative relies on vertical integration between renewable power generation, electrolysis, storage, and hydrogen distribution. This model aims to strengthen Namibia’s position as a future regional hub for hydrogen mobility and industrial decarbonisation.
Driving hydrogen mobility in Africa
According to Plug Power, this installation is a milestone in the commercialisation of green hydrogen. The company highlights that its electrolyzer technology enables the development of scalable and reliable infrastructure suited to emerging markets like Namibia. It expects this approach to be replicated in other African countries with abundant renewable resources.
Global demand for hydrogen infrastructure is rising, supported by favourable public policies and growing investment, particularly in Africa, the Middle East, and Australia. The Namibian project could serve as a model for local production initiatives, while also exploring export potential to international markets.
