Namibia is boldly staking its claim as a leader in renewable energy in southern Africa. With abundant solar resources, steady winds in select regions, and wide swathes of undeveloped land, the country is well positioned to scale up clean energy production. At the same time, its mining sector, vital to the economy, is under pressure to cut emissions, maintain reliable power, and boost efficiency. The result is a new chapter of opportunity for industries. Renewable energy is changing how mines operate, how workers are trained, and how communities benefit, and Namibia is on track to prove that mining can grow in a way that is responsible and sustainable.
Namibia’s renewable energy potential
Namibia has a natural advantage when it comes to renewable energy. The country’s sunny plains, windy regions, and potential for green hydrogen create strong opportunities for clean power. Solar farms can be built at scale, wind farms can provide steady energy, and green hydrogen can store excess power, fuel industrial processes, and support electricity and transport needs. Together, these energy sources can deliver reliable, round-the-clock power for mines and other industries.
For mining companies, the benefits are substantial. Generating energy on or near mining sites reduces reliance on imported electricity and fossil fuels, giving operations more control over supply and costs. It also improves efficiency by providing a stable, predictable source of power, which is particularly important for energy-intensive processes and remote locations.
Renewable energy can help mines reduce operational downtime, lower carbon emissions, and meet environmental compliance standards, all while strengthening resilience against fluctuating energy prices. In addition, adopting solar, wind, and green hydrogen can enhance a company’s reputation with investors, regulators, and communities by demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and forward-thinking operations. This is more than the adoption of renewable energy. It is an opportunity for mining companies to operate more efficiently, sustainably, and reliably, setting a new standard for the sector.
Cleaner mining and stronger operations
Mining is an energy-intensive industry, and traditional reliance on diesel and imported electricity can leave operations vulnerable to supply disruptions and rising costs. By integrating renewable energy, mines can stabilise their power supply, ensuring continuous production and protecting both output and profitability.
Renewable energy also allows mining companies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve environmental performance. This can help meet regulatory requirements, satisfy investors who are increasingly focused on sustainability, and build stronger relationships with local communities. Cleaner energy solutions can also lower operating costs over time, as mines gain more control over energy pricing and reduce dependence on external suppliers.
Immediate benefits aside, renewable energy encourages long-term operational resilience. Mines equipped with solar, wind, or green hydrogen systems can better plan for future growth, manage risks, and adapt to changing market conditions. Namibia proves that mining can be smart and sustainable, combining operational strength with a commitment to cleaner energy and environmental care.
Transforming the workforce
The move to renewable energy is reshaping workforce demands across sectors. People are needed to install, manage and operate solar setups, wind turbines, and green hydrogen systems, as well as the complex energy storage and control systems that support them. Skills in electrical and mechanical systems, digital monitoring, and safety are essential, along with the ability to adapt to new technologies as they emerge.
This growing demand for renewable energy is creating exciting opportunities for technicians, engineers, and operators, particularly in rural communities. Accredited training providers are equipping workers with the practical skills, safety knowledge, and environmental awareness needed to operate solar, wind, and emerging energy systems such as green hydrogen. Programmes also teach land rehabilitation and ways to reduce environmental impacts, preparing the sector to meet both operational and sustainability goals.
In combining technical expertise with environmental stewardship, Namibia is building a workforce that can drive cleaner, more resilient mining operations in a way that directly benefits local communities. The country is emerging as a regional leader focused on workforce development, showing how mining can be productive, responsible and forward-looking while providing an example for other nations to follow.
Collaboration drives long-term value
For renewable energy to drive growth in Namibia’s mining sector, mining companies, energy providers, and training organisations must work closely together. Training programmes need to evolve alongside technology so that workers are continuously learning new skills to meet modern demands. Partnerships between service providers and regulatory agencies will ensure skills remain aligned with industry requirements, and supportive policies will reinforce these efforts.
When sectors collaborate effectively, the benefits multiply. Operations become more efficient, local communities gain opportunities, and sustainable investment is encouraged. Namibia is setting a bold example for the region, showing how mining can grow to become smarter, cleaner, and more inclusive. Other countries can look to Namibia as a model for aligning economic growth, workforce development, and environmental stewardship in a way that inspires a more sustainable future for the entire continent.
Opinion piece by Jacques Farmer, Managing Director of PRISMA Training Solutions.
