Hydrogen Rail Innovation in Namibia
CMB.TECH Namibia is advancing the development of a green hydrogen-powered locomotive, bringing maritime-proven dual-fuel technology into the rail sector.
In this Railways Africa interview, Roy Campe, Chief Technology Officer at CMB.TECH, explains how the company is adapting hydrogen technology used in maritime applications for railway operations in Namibia. The project involves repowering an idle 60-year-old locomotive by retaining the steel frame and replacing key components with new systems, including a dual-fuel engine and hydrogen storage technology.
The locomotive is being developed for operation in Namibia’s demanding rail environment, including high temperatures, high altitude and dusty desert conditions. The dual-fuel approach enables the locomotive to operate on hydrogen when available, while maintaining diesel capability as a backup, according to CMB.TECH, the initial target is a 50% emissions reduction during trials, with the potential to increase hydrogen use as testing progresses.
The six-month trial will be undertaken with TransNamib, with AGL involved in container transport between Windhoek and the Port of Walvis Bay. Campe also highlights the wider potential for repowering similar idle locomotive fleets in Namibia and across sub-Saharan Africa, extending asset life while supporting cleaner logistics.
The discussion also covers Namibia’s renewable energy potential, the role of locally produced hydrogen, the challenges of railway electrification in large and sparsely populated countries, and the regional skills base needed to refurbish and remanufacture locomotives.
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CMB.TECH Namibia is advancing the development of a green hydrogen-powered locomotive, bringing maritime-proven dual-fuel technology into the rail sector.
In this Railways Africa interview, Roy Campe, Chief Technology Officer at CMB.TECH, explains how the company is adapting hydrogen technology used in maritime applications for railway operations in Namibia. The project includes the repowering of an idle 60-year-old locomotive with a dual-fuel engine and hydrogen storage technology.
The six-month trial will be undertaken with TransNamib, with AGL involved in container transport between Windhoek and the Port of Walvis Bay.
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