Namibia has delayed its plans to issue green bonds aimed at funding renewable energy and hydrogen projects. The delay stems from setbacks with the European Union’s Global Green Bond Initiative (GGBI), designed to support developing markets in issuing green bonds.
Green Bond Issuance Affected by EU Delays
The European Union launched the GGBI last year as part of its strategy to finance the energy transition. Namibia had prepared for participation in the initiative, but has yet to finalize its timeline for issuing sovereign green bonds. According to Finance Minister Iipumbu Shiimi, the delay in the financial closure of the EU’s GGBI has hindered the country’s ability to proceed with the issuance.
Shiimi explained that this delay has affected Namibia’s technical support and capacity-building processes for the establishment of a green bond office. The office is vital for enhancing Namibia’s readiness for large-scale bond issuances in the future.
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Namibia’s Green Hydrogen Ambitions
Despite the setbacks with green bond issuance, Namibia is determined to position itself as a leader in green hydrogen production. Green hydrogen is generated by using renewable electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. The country believes this technology will provide a cleaner energy solution for industries like shipping and heavy manufacturing.
However, green hydrogen has its critics. Some argue that it is commercially unviable. Despite these concerns, political and corporate leaders in Namibia are optimistic that green hydrogen will play a critical role in the country’s energy future.
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Plans to Establish Green Bond Office
Namibia’s Environmental Investment Fund (EIF) is still committed to creating a green bond office. The technical expertise of the GGBI will support the office. The EIF plans to list the green bonds on both the Namibian and Johannesburg stock exchanges. It is an attempt to attract local and international investors.
Although Namibia has not finalized the exact amount it intends to raise through the green bonds, Shiimi emphasized that the country remains committed to aligning its approach with global sustainable finance trends. The goal is to ensure the bonds attract the right mix of local and international investors.
Challenges and Opportunities for Namibia
While the delay presents challenges, Namibia’s long-term vision for renewable energy and green hydrogen projects remains intact. The country continues to explore sustainable financing options to support its ambitious green energy goals.
By positioning itself at the forefront of green hydrogen production and sustainable finance, Namibia aims to contribute to a cleaner global energy future.