World-first breakthrough in zero-emission iron production realized by Namibia's HyIron.
Revolutionizing Iron Production: The HyIron Oshivela Project
In the pursuit of sustainable solutions, Namibia's HyIron has ignited a game-changer. The Oshivela pilot project, nestled in the Erongo region near Arandis, is more than just a first for Namibia – it's a world-first in carbon-free iron production. With a solar-powered facility and state-of-the-art hydrogen technology, HyIron is stirring up a storm in the steel industry.
This trailblazing project is the first on the planet to use green hydrogen for processing iron oxide to produce Direct Reduced Iron ore (DRI), a vital ingredient in sustainable steel production. Backed by €13m from the German federal ministry for economic affairs & climate action, HyIron is a consortium of German companies, with a Namibian partner, HyIron Green Technologies.
Construction of the facility began in 2024. In six months, HyIron had installed 44,000 solar panels across 25ha, generating 25MW of renewable energy. The facility operates towards the sun's rays, backed by the 25MW solar energy farm and 13.4MW of battery storage capacity.
The Oshivela project has already made history. It successfully produced its first green hydrogen in March 2025, utilizing a cutting-edge 12MW electrolyzer. The plant is currently in its first operational phase, producing 15,000 tonnes of zero-emission DRI annually, with plans for significant expansion.
This pioneering project is a testament to Namibia's commitment to sustainable industrialization. With potential to produce two million tonnes of green iron annually, it could potentially cut approximately 3.6 million tonnes of CO2 emissions each year compared to conventional methods, significantly contributing to climate change mitigation.
For Namibia, this project means more than just environmental benefits. It has already created around 400 construction jobs, with plans to sustain over 6,000 construction jobs and 900 permanent roles in production. The project prioritizes employing Namibian youth and local small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs).
Positioning Namibia as a leader in the green transition and industrial innovation, this project marks a significant step forward for Southern Africa. It stands as a crucial piece in the continent's green transition, attracting investment, and establishing Namibia as a strategic global partner in the green manufacturing revolution, particularly for sectors like automotive, energy, and manufacturing.
In essence, the HyIron Oshivela pilot project represents a major breakthrough in carbon-free iron production, paving the way for a more sustainable future in Namibia, Africa, and beyond.
- The HyIron Oshivela Project in Namibia, a world-first in carbon-free iron production, is revolutionizing the industry with its solar-powered facility and hydrogen technology.
- The project, supported by €13m from the German federal ministry for economic affairs & climate action, is a consortium of German companies, with a Namibian partner, HyIron Green Technologies.
- Construction of the facility started in 2024, and in just six months, 44,000 solar panels were installed across 25ha, generating 25MW of renewable energy.
- The Oshivela project successfully produced its first green hydrogen in March 2025, using a 12MW electrolyzer, and is currently in its first operational phase, producing 15,000 tonnes of zero-emission DRI annually.
- With potential to produce two million tonnes of green iron annually, the project could significantly contribute to climate change mitigation by cutting approximately 3.6 million tonnes of CO2 emissions each year compared to conventional methods.
- The project has already created around 400 construction jobs and plans to sustain over 6,000 construction jobs and 900 permanent roles in production, prioritizing employment opportunities for Namibian youth and local small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs).
