InFocus Namibia - May 2024

InFocus NAMIBIA

AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

ECONOMY AT LARGE

The Economy: Benefits from Net-Zero

Namibia and Green Procurement: A Catalyst

ENERGY SECTOR

Namibia Solar Energy Production

Electricity: 400KV AUAS-GERUS Line

Nuclear Now or Later?

Green Hydrogen: The “King and I”

Water: Is Net-Zero Evaporating?

AGRICULTURE

Net-Zero: The Water, Energy and Food Nexus

TRANSPORT & MOBILITY

Interest Grows: SAA aims for the sky’s E-mobility: Technology vs Vandalism Fly me to the moon!

From The Editor

DearReader,

Welcometoanothereditionof InFocus Namibia!

Net-zero or bust

international support, investment, and partnerships. Moreover, adopting environmentally responsible practices enhances Namibia'sreputationasaresponsiblestewardoftheenvironment, attractingeco-conscioustouristsandinvestorsseekingsustainable destinations

We hope you find this edition informative as we encourage you to followusandengagewithusonalloursocialmediaaccounts. As always, the conversation continues at infocus@rdjpublishing.africa.

Yours, editor@rdjpublishing.africa

(DavidA Jarrett) Editor

Authors RDJResearchers

ThiseditionofInFocusNamibiadelvesintonet-zeroandthematters thatNamibianeedtotackleastheopportunitiesaboundintheface of diversity embracing a net-zero trajectory offers a pathway to prosperity for Namibia by unlocking economic opportunities, enhancing resilience, and safeguarding the environment for future generations.

Transitioning to a low-carbon, sustainable economy requires bold leadership, innovation, and collaboration across sectors As Namibiachartsitscoursetowardsanet-zerofuture,itcanharness the power of renewable energy, sustainable development, and global cooperation to build a more resilient, prosperous, and sustainablenation.

Theventurebyusintoalternativefuelsanddemonstratingambition andcommitmenttotacklingclimatechangecanattract

This report is a FREE Publication written and authored through collaboration with RDJ Consulting Services CC based in Windhoek, Namibia

The content is collected from publicly available information and so its accuracycannotbeguaranteed.

NOTE 1: We welcome letters and articles from readers globally and require that you provide your full details such as name,currentaddressandcontactphone/WhatsAppnumberas wellasemail Wehoweverreservetherighttoamend,modifyor reject submissions You may also request that your details be withheldfrompublication

NOTE2: InFocusNamibiaispublishedmonthlyandisFREE to Readers. The magazine is paid for by advertising and the research support from RDJ Consulting Services CC, Windhoek, Namibia

RDJ Publishing (Pty) Ltd is the publishing home of the InFocus Namibia, written and authored through the collaboration with RDJ Consulting Services CC (www.rdjconsulting.co.za).

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Quick Facts

Economy at Large

The Economy: Benefits from Net-Zero

AUTHOR: David Jarrett and Team Editor@ RDJ Publishing and RDJ Group ChiefExecutiveOfficer

HyphenCEOMarcoRaffinettisigningtheFIAinNamibia,withPresidentHageGeingob Namibia Courtesy:HyphenHydrogenEnergy26/05/2023

In this new age of climate change and decarbonization, there is a reticence to let go of the “old ways” and stick to the status quo. As Namibia is moving towards being a

leader in green hydrogen and ammonia production through the abundance of solar and wind energy, the same is happening in regard to major oil finds The latter being better known and a mainstay of the economy as we know it, the balance is still to be understood generally as well as any benefits to be derived from a net-zero approach

Economic growth, often gauged through the lens of gross domestic product (GDP), serves as a vital yardstick for assessing a nation's prosperity by quantifying the total value of goods and services generated within its borders over a specified period While GDP offers a fundamental measure, it's important to acknowledge its limitations in

encapsulating the full spectrum of economic well-being. Nevertheless, when complemented by other metrics, GDP remains an invaluable tool for illuminating avenues of economic advancement and identifying areas ripe for improvement. Expanding on this framework involves exploring diverse strategies and policies that foster sustainable growth, ranging from investing in infrastructure and technology to nurturing innovation, bolstering education, and promoting entrepreneurship

What really is net-zero?

Net-zero requires in its simplest terms, the production of greenhouse gases by society should be balanced with its rate of removal from the atmosphere

By harnessing these avenues, nations can unleash their economic potential, foster job creation, enhance living standards, and cultivate resilient economies capable of weathering global challenges Thus, while GDP may not provide a comprehensive picture, its integration with a broader array of indicators helps chart a course towards inclusive and robust economic prosperity Net-zero impacts on an economy can thus be gauged by its GDP gains or losses, essentially showing if growth or contraction has occurred.

Greenhouse gases being the focal point, are removed through various means resulting in mitigation and Namibia is well endowed with renewable energy resources so making an opportunity for economic growth. Transitioning towards a net-zero economy offers a unique opportunity to stimulate economic growth while simultaneously addressing climate change and sustainability challenges and can occur through several avenues:

The implementing of infrastructure projects focused on sustainable transportation such as electric or green hydrogen powered vehicles, energy-efficient buildings equipped with sensors and low energy demand equipment, and resilient water management systems inclusive of desalination and reverse osmosis water treatment not only reduces carbon emissions but also stimulates economic activity

With the provision of incentives, subsidies, and regulatory support can also encourage industries to adopt cleaner production methods, invest in green technologies, and reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining economic competitiveness The use and production of ammonia, green hydrogen, solar panels and of course solar water heaters is well underway or within the reach of Namibia to

capitalise on As pointed out by others, A preliminary analysis by the World Bank of the green hydrogen market and levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) shows that Namibia couldproducehighlycompetitivegreenammonia

Encouraging circular economy practices, such as recycling, waste reduction, and product reuse, can not only minimize resource consumption and waste generation but also stimulate economic activity through the creation of new industries and job opportunities in the recycling and remanufacturing sectors Again this is an area that Namibia currently is showing growth and has the potential to create additionalopportunities

The Hyphen project for example seeks to invest NAD 200 billion and ultimately 90% of 3 000 full-time jobs. Although much smaller, HDF’s renewstable project will create 45 fulltime jobs and Daures Green Hydrogen Village will not only provide 100 jobs but see a NAD 200 million investment in Phase 1, these with others such as cleanergy and HyIron for examplehaveplacedNamibiafirmlyonthemap.

The benefits of net-zero once fully understood can only benefit the Namibia economy and complement the oil and gas sector gains As always, conversation continues infocus@rdjpublishing africa

Readings:

https://climateinstitute ca/net-zero-is-compatible-with-economicgrowth-if-we-do-it-right/ https://gh2namibia.com/ https://hyphenafrica com/projects/ https://www energyvoice com/renewables-energytransition/hydrogen/africa-hydrogen/508012/hyphen-sets-sailnamibian-hydrogen-exports/ https://www renewstable-swakopmund com/ https://energynews.biz/first-phase-of-daures-green-hydrogenvillage-starts-construction-in-namibia/

Namibia and Green Procurement: A Catalyst

AUTHOR: David Jarrett and Team Editor@ RDJ Publishing and RDJ Group ChiefExecutiveOfficer

Net-zero is taken as an “imposed” activity by “others” of which the payment to rectify is paid by “us” In recent years, the concept of green

procurement has gained significant traction worldwide as governments, organizations, and consumers increasingly prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility. However, in a globally competitive world, Namibia can boost its competitive position even via competitive and directed procurement actions

Green procurement, also known as environmentally preferable purchasing (EPP) or sustainable procurement, involves a range of practices aimed at minimizing the environmental footprint of procurement activities. This includes sourcing products and services that are energyefficient, recyclable, non-toxic, and produced using

sustainable methods. It also involves considering the entire lifecycle of a product, from raw material extraction to disposal, to ensure minimal environmental harm at every stage

Implementing green procurement practices offers numerous benefits to both the environment and the economy Firstly, it reduces the carbon footprint and environmental impact of procurement activities, contributing to conservation efforts and mitigating climate change. Secondly, it promotes innovation and the development of eco-friendly technologies and products, driving economic growth and competitiveness Additionally, green procurement can lead to cost savings through reduced energy consumption, waste management, and lifecycle costs.

Courtesy:Freepik(ai-image)

Namibia, like many other nations, stands to gain significantly from the adoption of green procurement practices. As a country with vast natural resources and unique ecosystems, Namibia is particularly vulnerable to environmental degradation and climate change By embracing green procurement, Namibia can protect its natural heritage while fostering sustainable economic development. This can be further enhanced through investment in energy-efficient technologies and sustainable infrastructure, Namibia can enhance resource efficiency and reduce operational expenses for both public and private entities

This can be achieved in a variety of ways such as through procurement policies can incentivize the growth of local industries producing environmentally friendly goods and services. In an increasingly environmentally conscious

global marketplace, adopting green procurement practices can enhance Namibia's international competitiveness. By aligning procurement policies with international sustainability standards, Namibian products can access broader markets and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers and businesses

As always, the conversation continues infocus@rdjpublishing.africa while Namibia strives to achieve its sustainable development goals, green procurement emerges as a powerful tool for realizing a prosperous and environmentally resilient future

Readings:

https://www weforum org/agenda/2024/05/chinafinancing-green-transition

Green Procurement

Energy Sector

Namibia Solar Energy Production

Solar energy is abundant in Namibia. These are the modelled amounts of MWh’s of energy that can be produced by 100 MWp of solar photovoltaic (solar panels) if they were installed in the central areas of Namibia.

What these graphs teach us is the quantity and pattern of production that can be expected if such a plant existed

Solar Production 2024 (month to-date)

Assumed MWh’s of electricity production by month.

Electricity: 400KV AUAS-GERUS Line

AUTHOR: Silpa Kanghono Coordinator:DigitalMarketingandEvents@RDJPublishing

AUAS-GERUSLine Courtesy:RDJConsulting

NamPower proudly hosted the formal inauguration ceremony of the 400 kilovolts (kV) AUAS -GERUS Transmission Line on 26 April 2024 This significant

event marked a milestone in NamPower's endeavours, underscoring its commitment to advancing the nation's power infrastructure. The AUAS-GERUS 400kV transmission line project is a pivotal component of NamPower's ambitious 400kV Expansion Programme, which aims to augment Namibia's power transmission capabilities by extending its 400kV transmission infrastructure backbone by over 800 kilometres

The Auas-Gerus transmission project holds significant value, with an investment exceeding N$870 million Namibian Dollars, funded by NamPower. This sum comprises N$629 million allocated for the transmission line

itself and N$241 million designated for the upgrade of substations The 287 km long transmission line, which will be operated at 400kV, is a strategic and crucial investments in Namibia’s electricity transmission network, as it will enable NamPower to keep pace with the evolving and increasing electricity needs of our country

This expansion will allow NamPower to accommodate the energy needs of a growing population with ever-changing needs, and an economy that is expected to show resilient return to growth Furthermore, it will facilitate the evacuation of power from new generation projects planned by NamPower (such as Omburu Solar PV, Anixas Firm Power Project, Otjikoto Biomass, Luderitz Wind, and others) as well as the private sector initiatives like independent power producers (IPPs) through the modified Single Buyer

model Lastly, this expansion will also create opportunities for energy trading with other utilities within the Southern African Power Pool, as well as other private sector energy players

NamPower has encouraged these projects as a proud Namibian endeavour and facilitated by local firms. This underscores the growth of Namibian skills within the electricity sector, which is a departure from previous reliance on international firms for such endeavours One notable local entity, Power Line Africa, has collaborated extensively with NamPower on various projects in the past and has been instrumental in developing much of Namibia's transmission lines network. They have been conducting project design, procurement, and construction, (EPC) Power Line Africa serves as the EPC contractor Additionally, the construction aspects, including civil, mechanical, and electrical erection work at the Auas Substation, were

managed by ADENCO-CSV Namibia Construction Consortium (Pty)

The event was attended by key stakeholders in the energy sector and was graced by the presence of the Minister of Mines and Energy, Hon. Tom Alweendo. In his keynote address, he underscored the significance milestone in our journey towards energy security and regional cooperative. “Let us retain the importance of maintaining and upgrading our strategic infrastructures to secure a bright future for generations to come through resilient network” Hon Tom Alweendo concluded

In conclusion, this project stands as a testament to NamPower's unwavering dedication to furnishing a dependable security of supply, which is a cornerstone for sustaining economic growth within our nation

About Us

TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY LANDSCAPE

RDJ Consulting is a 100% Namibian Energy and Sustainability Consultancy with more than 30 years’ experience in the utility (Water, Energy and Telecoms), rural development and transport sectors Our experience as an integrated professional services firm that builds better communities through planning, design, and delivery of physical and social infrastructure helps support our clients in all aspects going forward.

We approach each of our clients with fresh eyes to develop customized, unique strategies

RDJ Consulting based in Windhoek, Namibia has extensive experience in Southern Africa, Asia, Britain, USA and the Caribbean We thus work with various governments and agencies to address development issues in developing countries.

Our Services:

Nuclear Now or Later?

AUTHOR: David Jarrett and Team Editor@ RDJ Publishing and RDJ Group ChiefExecutiveOfficer

UraniumPricing-Jan2020toMar2024 Courtesy:Statista2024

The import of electricity and its perpetual presence and magnitude as part of Namibia’s consumption profile is making room for various options to plug

that gap. Further added is the ambition of many to see the country reverse the import trend and make the country a net exporter. As pointed out in InFocus Namibia (March 2024), Namibia needs increased generation of an effective capacity of some 450 MW of mixed technologies for local demand with 220 MW already committed under the NamPower 2019 – 2023 Strategic Plan and several more MW’s under the Modified single-buyer (MSB) profile and South Africa is seeking to ramp up local generation in excess of 10 000 MW.

On the other hand, Namibia is an exporter of energy in the form of uranium yellow cake, contributing some N$ 4 7

billion to GDP in 2023. Based on figures from a Chamber of Mines piece, Namibia exports around 2 000 tonnes of Uranium that would equate to approximately 88 TWh or 22 years of Namibia’s current electricity demand Examining the Uranium industry, the Bank of Namibia in its March 2024 Economic Outlook, is expected to grow by 3 6 percent, down from a growth of 24.5 percent in 2023. The poor growth rate for 2024 is suggested to occur based on poor water availability although prices are improving.

Water shortages due to droughts are nothing new for the country and as they increase in intensity due to climate changes, the matter will require more long-term approaches. InFocus Namibia has pointed out the approaches to obtaining nuclear energy before are onerous and have a long-time based pathway for realisation. The

Namibian government has been at pains when asked why are we not pursuing nuclear energy (electricity) to point out that nuclear power is considered a ‘long-term” option and could be a part of the energy mix going forward In the same vein, it has also been noted by the Minister of Mines and Energy (Hon. Tom Alweendo) to be a long process even if a decision was to be made today.

So what would it take?

In the pursuit of solutions, the question of whether to adopt nuclear power remains a significant consideration. Recognizing the complexity and long-term implications of such a decision, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) offers guidance through its "Milestones Approach " This strategic framework, encompassing three distinct phases, towards informed choices regarding nuclear energy implementation

Why Nuclear: This initial phase focuses on clarifying the rationale behind considering nuclear energy as a viable option Namibia needs to evaluate their energy needs, environmental concerns, and strategic objectives to ascertain whether nuclear power aligns with their long-term development plans

Preparation (What and How): In the preparation phase, countries delve into the practical aspects of initiating a nuclear program. This requires painstaking planning, regulatory framework establishment, infrastructure development, and human resource capacity building The emphasis is on laying a solid foundation for safe, secure, and sustainable nuclear energy utilization

Build/Operation Phase: The culmination of the Milestones Approach involves the actual construction and operation of nuclear facilities This phase demands stringent adherence to established safety protocols, ongoing regulatory oversight, and proactive engagement with stakeholders to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the lifecycle of nuclear power generation.

Embarking on a nuclear program is no small endeavor as it requires substantial time, resources, and commitment

According to the IAEA, the setup of a nuclear program can span up to 15 years, with a subsequent operational lifespan extending over a century Such a significant undertaking underscores the need for careful consideration and strategicplanningtomitigaterisksandmaximizebenefits

Crucial to the success of any nuclear initiative is the alignment of interests among stakeholders and the judicious allocation of financial resources. The decision to pursue nuclear power must factor in the diverse needs and concerns of the various stakeholders, ranging from policymakersandindustryplayerstothegeneralpublicand environmental advocates. Moreover, the financial feasibility of a nuclear program hinges on prudent investment strategies, cost-benefit analyses, and long-term budgetaryplanning.Thislatterfactoriscrucial.

Fifth-Generation(5thGen)Systems

Looking ahead, the current evolution of nuclear technology holds promise for enhanced safety, efficiency, and sustainability Fifth-generation (5th Gen) nuclear systems, are currently in the Research and Development (R&D) phase, represent the next frontier in nuclear energy innovation With prototypes projected by 2029 and commercial production anticipated by 2034, these advanced reactors offer potential solutions to existing challenges

Awareness of what Namibia’s options are, will require InFocus Namibia to take the reader on a journey and this willtakeplacemonthlysowatchthisspace!

Readings:

https://www bon com na/CMSTemplates/Bon/Files/bon com na/fe/fe 37f31d-b0ea-46c8-aa25-ced752f1329d pdf

https://www namibiansun com/local-news/nuclear-energy-a-longterm-consideration-alweendo-says2023-12-19

https://wits worldbank org/trade/comtrade/en/country/NAM/year/20 19/tradeflow/Exports/partner/ALL/product/261210#

https://chamberofmines org na/blog-post/rise-of-uranium-andpotential-for-namibian-economy/ https://world-nuclear org/information-library/nuclear-fuelcycle/introduction/nuclear-fuel-cycle-overview

Green Hydrogen: The “King and I”

AUTHOR: David Jarrett and Team Editor@ RDJ Publishing and RDJ Group ChiefExecutiveOfficer

BelgianHydrogenStrategy Courtesy:PwCBelgium

Recognizing that technological revolutions and changes take time, Namibia continues to make waves as it moves towards being a centre of the

alternative energy revolution in line with the ambitions of the late President, H. E. Hage Geingob, both in terms of solar, wind and biomass (encroacher bush), but also with green hydrogen production and utilisation The presence of King Philippe of Belgium in Namibia on a four-day state visitwith Namibian President, H E Nangola Mbumba, provided clear evidence of progress towards being a major player.

The context behind both Namibia’s ambitions and the desire of Belgium is important to an understanding of how green hydrogen can be part of Namibia’s export and energy future Taking an export viewpoint, Belgium as part of Europe’s Hydrogen Strategy, outlines measures for boosting demand for hydrogen and the scaling up of production dating back to 2020.

The Belgian Hydrogen Strategy seeks for Belgium to be the import hub for the European Union based on sustainable fuels using an “open access” network by 2030 In

furtherance of this, Belgium is expected to provide 395 million euros to complement mobilized private sector investments This action will be complemented by Market Development, Technology Leadership and Cooperation Facilitation

The action surrounding Cooperation Facilitation is where the synergy for both countries fulfil their needs.

One of the “barriers” that impacts green hydrogen projects is that as utilizing technologies are still to be the norm, the average consumer cannot relate to these new-fangled fuels This point is also mooted by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in its latest report Green hydrogen for sustainable industrial development: A policy toolkit for developing countries that notes that:

green hydrogen’s potential as a catalyst for sustainable development within developing countries that can contribute to economic growth, environmental sustainability and social progress

The crowding in effect should not be discounted and it thus adds credence to the approach by both countries as they align national objectives. An example of the alignment is developed through several joint actions such as:

Cleanergy Solutions Namibia, is a joint venture between the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group (A Namibian company registered in Windhoek, Namibia) and CMB.TECH (A Belgian company registered in Antwerpen, Belgium) that is creating several green hydrogen related projects that centre around hydrogen refuelling The refuelling then intersects with dual-fuel trucking, rail locomotives and port equipment

Solar powered public hydrogen refuelling station Courtesy: Cleanergy

Compagnie Maritime Belge (CMB) through Cleanergy, has plans to increase investment in Namibia by some USD 3 5 billion (approximately NAD 65 billion) by 2030 or earlier as the market develops. This driven by CMB looking to power its shipping through hydrogen and ammonia. Once materialised, ships could refuel in Walvis Bay, increasing the importance of the port to global shipping activities

Several other green hydrogen projects in Namibia thus are set to benefit from the increased interest and creation opportunity to become centres of excellence going forward.

As the Namibian green hydrogen industry develops, public sentiment will positively grow through proof of concepts Yes it is true, with focusses on the techno-economic aspects of green hydrogen there needs to be a better approach for citizenry to better understand the benefits for humanity as a whole.

The conversation continues infocus@rdjpublishing.africa

Reading:

https://www namibian com na/king-philippe-president-mbumba-tointensify-green-hydrogen-talks/ https://energy.ec.europa.eu/topics/energy-systemsintegration/hydrogen/key-actions-eu-hydrogen-strategy en https://www swecobelgium be/ https://www.oxfordenergy.org/wpcms/wpcontent/uploads/2024/04/ET32-Green-Hydrogen-Imports-intoEurope-An-Assessment-of-Potential-Sources pdf https://cmb.tech/news/cleanergy-solutions-namibia-kicks-offconstruction-works-for-africas-first-public-refuelling-station-withonsite-green-hydrogen-production https://www2.deloitte.com/xe/en/pages/energy-andresources/articles/future-of-energy-pov-on-hydrogen html

Hydrogen Demand Assessment by 20250 Courtesy: PwC Belgium

Water Water: Is Net-Zero Evaporating?

AUTHOR: David Jarrett and Team Editor@ RDJ Publishing and RDJ Group ChiefExecutiveOfficer

Image:maniacvectorCourtesy: Freepik

Decarbonization efforts at the forefront, is placing extra burdens on water utilities due to water generally being a loss making or breakeven

essential service. Water utilities are facing a myriad of challenges even before net-zero becomes a central issue. The issues facing the utility surround aging infrastructure, water loss through leaks and theft, feedwater availability and the willingness of consumers to pay for water

The added responsibility to then meet the organic challenges, with the added impact of climate change that itself is requiring at a minimum, net-zero action, is making it near impossible for water utilities to balance A complexity to this is population growth, expanding the problem creating a moving target As water utilities globally account for two percent of global emissions which is equivalent to that produced by the airline industry, water is essential and so there can be no discussion about reducing use although there is room for reduction of waste or loss.

NamWater as a bulk supplier is no exception to these challenges and will have to lay out a path to economic and decarbonization sustainability While the matter of net-

zero is pressing, it should be made with full consideration of the realities facing the utility This extract from the latest public Annual Report (NamWater):

NamWater's infrastructure, which ranges from dams, reservoirs, pipelines and purification plants, is not only expensive to construct but also requires continuous maintenance, which results in the delivery of water as being an expensive exercise

One of the major obstacles for the Corporation is that many Namibians do not reside in areas where water is easily and readily accessible, which requires the construction of pipelines over long distances to ensure the supply of water to these areas

shows that the utility concurs and sees the water supply value chain to be central to any solution A 2022 report by CDP (www.cdp.net) show that only eight percent of companies have net-zero targets although In provision of water, electricity is a core resource for pumping, filter processes and treatments operations

NamWater further identifies insufficient water availability as its number one risk and unsustainable water tariffs as rounding off the top ten risks it faces Nowhere is the risk of climate change mentioned in the risk profiles although it is acknowledged as impacting water security issues NamWater also recognises that climate and ESG goals are part of good business but would “take a number of years” before guidelines are present.

We feel that NamWater needs to accelerate its net-zero approach so that it can increase it cost reduction strategy impacts With electricity being the highest financial cost factor at approximately NAD 435 million (USD 23.5 million) and representing 25% of revenue, this is an area to focus on for net-zero and cost reduction.

Working with NamPower, there is room to leverage solar and wind power supplies that would allow for “cleaner” supplies at lower cost structures leading to reduced energy intensity from a GHG perspective. NamWater can provide guarantees, allowing NamPower to contract power purchase agreements on its behalf removing the need for ownership or direct investment costs

Water security can be handled also by the use of renewables for water desalination, leading to a bi-focal benefit structure. During the water treatment process, biproducts, which have previously been regarded as waste, is generated but rather than simply disposing them, they can be treated as secondary raw materials to be recycled and reuse Recovered products can be used as clean water for irrigation and cleaning, nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer for farmers, as well as for heat energy and electricity

Using leading practice, water utilities globally have focussed strategies that focus on water security measures, pro-active leadership, water quality and healthy communities Water security also includes flood control measures and so adaptation funding could be an avenue to increase investment approaches. Integrated water cycle planning and system wide planning approaches will extend from harvesting and storage, through to treatment, distributionandreuse.

So, NamWater can start by quantifying its operations through data and other quantification. This will provide a baselinesothatemissionsboundariescanbesetandaction points can be created. While electricity use has been identified here it is not the only source that can create options. Another would be vehicle use shifting to e-fuels, notingthatemobilityisnowcommerciallyavailable

As always, the conversation continues infocus@rdjpublishing.africa

Readings:

www sawater com au https://aecom com/without-limits/article/water-utilities-net-zero/ https://twri tamu edu/publications/txh2o/2019/summer-2019/10challenges-of-water-utilities/ https://www namwater com na/images/docs/NAMWATER 2021 IAR Web Final pdf https://cdn cdp net/cdpproduction/cms/reports/documents/000/006/179/original/How comp anies in Asia Pacific are preparing for the netzero economy EN pdf?1648712180

AUTHOR: Chilombo (Olga) Priscila

Agriculture

Net-Zero: The Water, Energy and Food Nexus

AUTHOR: David Jarrett and Team Editor@ RDJ Publishing and RDJ Group ChiefExecutiveOfficer

Courtesy:EmbassyoftheRepublicofNamibiainJapan

The food system contributes nearly one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions, while concurrently grappling with interconnected

challenges including food waste, resource depletion, water use and energy consumption. It is stated that Beef production, rice production and feed coming from deforested areas (not inclusive of invader bush reduced lands) have the most negative effect on the emissions of greenhouse gas (GHG)

However, Namibia is striving to achieve a balance between environmental conservation and socioeconomic development, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. Focusing on national development challenges, vanguard leaders in research and policy, examined the water, energy and food nexus, resulting in a book capturing

the impact of a “growing” environmental challenge to key sectors of our society. The book, authored by Dr Detlof von Oertzen, Dr Martin Schneider, and Piet Heyns, was launched by the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS), Namibia–Angola Office, on 5 April

The interrelation between water, energy and food is known as the water–energy–food nexus. The individual nexus elements are connected and mutually dependent This mutual dependency implies that it is important to focus on the nexus holistically, rather than on its individual pillars Extract (Page 9)

Addressing the water-energy-food nexus is crucial for achieving net-zero goals. These areas are directly intersecting with net-zero objectives with all sectors having

commercially available options for mitigation Embracing circular economy principles in the water, energy, and food sectors can help minimize waste generation and resource depletion

Improving resource efficiency in one sector can lead to cascading benefits across the entire nexus, such as reducing waste, energy consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions. Increasing the deployment of renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind power, can reduce greenhouse gas emissions from energy production while minimizing water consumption compared to conventional fossil fuel-based energy sources.

Water is essential for agricultural production and energy generation, while energy is required for water pumping, treatment, and distribution as well as for agricultural operations Similarly, agriculture consumes vast amounts of energy and water for irrigation, processing, and transportation. Namibia's arid climate presents challenges for agriculture, but promoting resilience to climate change and enhancing soil health, these practices support food security and rural livelihoods

Adopting sustainable agricultural practices, such as precision irrigation, agroforestry, and organic farming, can enhance water and energy efficiency while promoting soil health and biodiversity. Recycling wastewater for

agricultural irrigation, harnessing energy from organic waste, and repurposing food waste as compost are examples of circular economy practices that contribute to net-zero objectives The focus on water management strategies such as rainwater harvesting, water recycling, and efficient irrigation techniques to optimize water use, improve water security, and mitigate the impacts of drought.

Achieving net-zero also requires collaboration between governments, businesses, civil society organizations, and academia. Multi-stakeholder partnerships can facilitate knowledge exchange, resource mobilization, and collective action to address the complex challenges of the waterenergy-food nexus. Effective governance frameworks and policy interventions are essential for addressing the waterenergy-food nexus Integrated planning, stakeholder engagement, and cross-sectoral coordination can facilitate the transition towards net-zero while ensuring equitable accesstowater,energy,andfoodresources

The challenge needs a concerted effort and so the conversationcontinues infocus@rdjpublishing.africa

Readings:

https://www eitfood eu/missions/net-zero-food-system https://www fao org/climate-change/news/news-detail/on-the-roadto-net-zero-emissions-with-agrifood-system-solutions/en

Transport & Mobility

Interest Grows: SAA aims for the sky’s

AUTHOR: David Jarrett and Team Editor@ RDJ Publishing and RDJ Group ChiefExecutiveOfficer

Airports Council International (ACI) World has in their assessment notes 2024 is expected to be a milestone for global passenger traffic recovery as it

reaches 9 4 billion passengers, surpassing the year 2019 that welcomed 9 2 billion passengers (102 5% of the 2019 level). Compared to the pre-COVID forecast that predicted 10.9 billion passengers in 2024, the effects of the pandemic represent a potential loss of 13.9%.

Namibia is continuing to show growth in the aviation sector with impressive arrival figures year on year The Namibia Airports Company (NAC) has initiated Air Connect Namibia, a project that seeks to establish the country as a “hub” and attract new international flight routes. The Africa region is expected to have a steadily increasing pattern for the upcoming years, reaching 221 million passengers, or 96 3% of the 2019 level, in the year 2023 The region is forecasted to reach 253 million passengers, or 110 6% of the 2019 level, by the end of 2024 This steady growth is expected to be driven by emerging markets, such as Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia.

NAC CEO, Mr Bisey Uirab said the “initiative aligns with their mission to enhance Namibia's connectivity, focusing initially on Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek” Post pandemic recovery of the sector had been slow initially but notable growth in the alter half of 2021 and 2022 is encouraging. Not surprising due to the general benefits brought about speed, general comfort and most importantly, safety. This will be enhanced with the increases from South African Airways (SAA) adding to this Post Covid, South African Airways (SAA), relaunched its Windhoek route in December 2022, noting the Windhoek route is part of SAA’s plans to continue its restart strategy, opening additional route networks to various regional destinations and growing the airline.

The revival adds to the more than 60-year history of SAA flights into Namibia To accomplish this fete as noted by others, SAA is currently operating 13 aircraft Among them are one Airbus A330-300, one A340-300, eight A320s and two Boeing 737-800s wet-leased from Turkish Airlines/Lufthans a joint venture carrier SunExpress. By the end of its fiscal 2025 (March 3, 2025), SAA aims to grow the fleet to 21 aircraft, including more A320s and A330s, plus one additional A340 Other carriers with operations in Namibia include Ethiopian Airlines, Lufthansa / Eurowings, South African Airways, Airlink/Fly Namibia and TAAG Angola Airlines.

However, for the aviation followers who remember SAA and Airlink partnership has floundered with SAA confirming that no future deal would be considered We can only assume this is on the back of the Airlink / FlyNamibia partnership earlier in September 2022. The result from our perspective is this will lead then to increased avenues for commutersseekingtraveloptionstoNamibia.

“2024 is off to a strong start despite economic and geopolitical uncertainties. As governments look to build prosperity in their economies in the busiest election-year ever, it is critical that they see aviation as a catalyst for growth. Increased taxes and onerous regulation are a counterweight to prosperity We will be looking to governments for policies that help aviation to reduce costs, improve efficiency and make progress towards net zero CO2 emissions by 2050,” said Willie Walsh, Director General of theInternationalAirTransportAssociation(IATA).

Globally, the deliveries of new aircrafts in 2023 are expected to have been around 1,300 (Boeing and Airbus) increasing options for airlines and increasing capacity on routes Africa has 2 – 3 percent of the global air traffic for commuters and competition will benefit Namibia as air traffic is expected to grow faster in Africa (with an average of 4 7%), than in Europe (2 7%) and North America (3 3%) While we focus on commuters, air cargo is also seeing increased interest, with Suid Cargo commencing cargo flights from its hub in Johannesburg via non-scheduled operations

Improved competitiveness of Namibia will increase through all of these “new” partnerships especially for the neighbouring landlocked countries, creating an “air-sea” bridge. A lot of work will be required but as always a journey of a thousand miles starts with the first step and theconversationcontinues infocus@rdjpublishing.africa

Readings:

https://www flightconnections com/flights-to-windhoek-wdh https://www flysaa com/about-us/leading-carrier/mediacenter/media-releases/newsroom

https://aviationweek com/air-transport/airlines-lessors/southafrican-airways-aims-triple-fleet

https://www flyairlink com/en/za/airlink-invests-in-flynamibia https://www emerald com/insight/content/doi/10 1108/JFM-072022-0076/full/html

https://www afraa org/suid-cargo-launch-of-south-africas-newestcargo-airline/

https://aci aero/2023/09/27/global-passenger-traffic-expected-torecover-by-2024-and-reach-9-4-billion-passengers/

E-mobility: Technology vs Vandalism

AUTHOR: David Jarrett and Team Editor@ RDJ Publishing and RDJ Group ChiefExecutiveOfficer

Thefutureoftransit Courtesy:VirtualVehicle

At an average new vehicle purchase rate of 10 000 to 20 000 per annum, there is a mountain and not a hill to climb for electric vehicles to be a substantial part

of the new vehicle fleet in Namibia Thus, e-mobility is still to take root in Namibia but even so there is an opportunity for not only adoption of e-mobility but adoption of lessons learnt.

One of the key lessons the emobility sector is learning is that economics trumps any amount of awareness raising for the climate agenda Improving air quality and fighting global warming to reduce CO2 emissions from internal combustion engines (ICE) while understandable and urgent, just isn’t enough to drive the needed change.

“Virtual Assistant” notes that one of the biggest obstacles to the large-scale introduction of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles is the limited storage capacity of electric batteries, which limits the range of the vehicles. This obstacle can be overcome through optimized energy

use. It will require a vehicle occupant-centric approach, taking into account space, cost and complexity requirements The optimistic approach that major sales of electric vehicles (EV’s) reaching some 90% of new vehicle sales as noted by EY and Eurelectric will not materialise without development of needed infrastructure and policy measures.

The Netherlands has the most electric vehicle charging points per capita and spatially have the densest charging infrastructure network The country draws its strong position from collaboration with and interlinking of stakeholders. The Dutch government drives national policy focusing on encouraging electric mobility in general but assigns decision-making power to regions and municipalities Local authorities structure local incentive programmes, such as Amsterdam’s city-specific decarbonisation strategy to drive electric vehicle penetration

For charging infrastructure, the Dutch government instated the Dutch “right to charge” as a demand-driven approach It requires the municipalities to set up public charging points within 250m of a home at the request of the citizens who own an electric vehicle The charging point operators (CPO) validate the demand and choose the charging points’ location based on transparent criteria, including available capacity, accessibility, visibility and local impacts. The charging point is set up in collaboration with government bodies and distribution system operators (DSO), ensuring grid stability, and that EV charging data flows to all parties

Standards and open protocols are also at the centre of the Dutch government’s National Charging Infrastructure Agenda. The multi-year policy programme, which entails a set of agreements between the various stakeholders, is an integrated approach to achieve the fast upscaling of charging infrastructure Apart from implementation and price transparency, open protocols and open markets, the agenda aims to boost smart charging. Collaboratively, the stakeholders develop market modes and technical architecture and organise legislation and regulation.

To promote the integrated planning of charging infrastructure, the German National Centre for Charging Infrastructure provides stakeholders with three different publicly available tools. Firstly, the Standorttool which indicates the currently installed CPs, the planned CPs and the forecasted future demand. Secondly, the Flächentool, which allows CPOs to identify potential sites for projects Finally, the Ladelerntool, which aims at increasing the know-how on charging infrastructure within municipalities

Charging is a major issue for Namibia as if too many variants enter the market, then it will create a difficulty for

types Courtesy: evcharge co za

EV adoption. With five charger types currently on the market, choosing the “right one” could determine success or failure for charger investment elucidating why no major investment has been made to date for Namibia. For example, The Type 1 Plug is the standard plug for electric vehicle charging in the United States and Japan. The 1st generation Nissan Leaf is the only EV in South Africa that uses this type of plug.Another barrier to be overcome is related to the fact that Tesla uses its own charge plug and ecosystem for its supercharging network in the U.S but has adopted the Type 2 / CCS 2 standard in Europe Tesla is expected to adopt the Type 2 / CCS 2 standard for South Africa

A focus thus is needed to push standardisation, long-term planning, market mechanisms supported by piloting programs Thus, Namibia realising this can make the time efficient by giving incentives for infrastructure rollout that would eventually encourage purchases of EV’s over internal combustion engines (ICE) vehicles So maybe in time ICE shouldreallybereservedforICE,“in case of emergency” As always, the conversation continues infocus@rdjpublishing.africa

Readings:

https://www autoevolution com/news/vandals-are-cuttingsupercharger-cables-but-tesla-is-on-top-of-it-233742 html https://ijg net/research/new-vehicle-sales-may-2023/

https://www virtual-vehicle at/applications/e-mobilityinfrastructure/

https://www ey com/en uk/news/2023/04/uk-s-ev-success-hingeson-six-essentials

https://changing-transport org/5-success-factors-for-charginginfrastructure-roll-out/ (EXTRACT)

https://evcharge co za/learn-electric-vehicle-charging-south-africa

Charger

Fly me to the moon!

AUTHOR: David Jarrett and Team Editor@ RDJ Publishing and RDJ Group ChiefExecutiveOfficer

NamibianAirportsandLandingStrips Courtesy:ourairportscom

With the clear and obvious size of Namibia, travel from one location to another necessitates coverage over long distances and by road this

means no less than four hours from Windhoek to Swakopmund or three hours to Otjiwarongo for example

So, what if it was possible to do this by air and even better by electric aircrafts?

As pointed out in our sister magazine Energy and Sustainability Africa (March 2022), there is a missed opportunity to improve our links between population centres while reducing the reliance on imported fuels. Now

the same can be said for road transport but with the state of roads as they are, costs for road upkeep and the impact of climate change, the use of air travel could greatly improve the economic outputs of nations, while reducing road traffic and saving time for commutes.

Rural communities are generally dismissed as uneconomical, unskilled workforces, poor infrastructure such as health and education, lack of transportation while at the same time, these areas are beautiful and relaxing It is the latter that makes them attractive to tourists while “boring” for residents leading to rural / urban migration.

Enter the future….….

One of the image problems for e-mobility is the sustainability push with a decarbonization label that has been placed at the forefront and the need for various industry tools to tackle climate change. This makes the whole matter seem like a scientific solution awaiting “reality checks”

Electric aviation could unlock rural communities especially in light of only needing electrical connectivity instead of transported fuel supplies and storage. With aviation giants like Airbus paving the way, the future is actually here, providing a radical shift. To speed this up, Airbus has focussed on hybridized approaches and have with competitors shown that short haul flights are possible These advances could seriously reduce pressure on urban environments due to the “time” bridge created through shorter travel times and better communication and access for rural areas.

Electra founded by Dr John Langford in 2020, focusses on building aircraft that will help decarbonize aviation and make high-speed air transport accessible for every community Electra's eSTOL is designed to fill a gap in transportation between 50-500 miles (80 – 800 km), that

would bring air travel to presently unserved communities Electra points out that “the key to saving time is to operate close in, which means getting in and out of small spaces quietly and safely, while flying fast enough to cover long distances”

Canyouimaginewhatthiscouldmeanfor ruralcommunities?

With a need for key stakeholders from government and the private sector realising that an electrified world is possible and public policy to support this – it could help move Namibia forward and develop frameworks with a pathway for e-mobility to also exist in the passenger and cargo aviationsectorsinAfricaasawhole.

Let’s continue to preserve our environment and as always, the conversation continues infocus@rdjpublishing.africa andwewelcomecomments.

Readings:

http://www ncaa com na/

https://ourairports com/big-map html?country=NA

https://www airbus com/en/newsroom

https://www electra aero/news

SurfAir Electra eSTOL Courtesy: electra aero

Tenders

Municipality of Swakopmund

Description: Sludge Drying Methods at the Wastewater Treatment Plant In Swakopmund

Bid Closing date: 27 May 2024 at 11h00 https://swakopmun.com/download/cs rp sm 003 2024-sludge-drying-methods-at-the-wastewater-treatment-plant-inswakopmund/

Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform

Description: Techno-Economic Feasibility Analysis, Design, Tender Documentation, Contract Administration and Site Supervision for the Construction of Grid-Tied Solar PV Plants at Etunda, Sikondo and Shadikongoro Green Scheme Irrigation Projects in Omusati, Kavango West and Kavango West Regions

Bid Closing date: 28 May 2024 https://egp2.gov.na/forms/ProjDetails.jsf

Orangemund Town Council

Description: Provision of Landfill Management Services

Bid Closing date: 29 May 2024 https://www oranjemund-tc com/news/procurement/

Erongo RED

Description: Supply, Delivery, Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance during the Defect Liability period of a 44kV Designed, but Operating at 33kV H-Pole Structure Overhead Line using Greased Hare Conductor from NamWater Booster 3 to Arandis Main Intake Substation This includes two T-Off Points Feeding to LITHOPS Substation

Bid Closing date: 31 May 2024 at 10h00 am https://www erongored com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Tender-Notice-09 2024 pdf

NamPower

Description: Construction of a Perimeter Fence between the main entrance and Tail Race for Ruacana Power Station Phase II

Bid Closing date: 21 Jun 2024 at 10h00 Namibian Time https://www nampower com na/Bid aspx?id=251898

Trans-Kalahari Railway Project Management Office (TKR-PMO)

Description: Request for Proposal (RFP)for the Selection of a Consultant for the Development of a Comprehensive RFP Document for the Trans-Kalahari Railway Project.

Bid Closing date: 26 June 2024 at 10h00 am (GMT+2) https://tkrpmo.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Bidding-Document-For- Request-for-Proposal-RFP-for-selection-of-aConsultant-for-the-Development-of-a-Comprehensive-RFP-Document-for-the-Trans-Kalahari-Railway-Project - pdf

National Planning Commission and Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform

Description: Construction of an Agricultural Development Centre, Veterinary Office and a staff house at Nkurenkuru, Kavango West, and the upgrading / renovation of the Auction Facility at Ncaute, Kavango East

Bid Closing date: 05 July 2024 at 16h00 Namibian Time https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/tender-details/e2ca8630-8f48-4c3d-bed26e62abb613b5-CN

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