Staff Writer
TransNamib Holdings Limited has approved a six-month trial of a dual-fuel locomotive powered by hydrogen and diesel in partnership with CMB.TECH.
The trial will run for about 50 round trips along the Walvis Bay to Windhoek corridor.
It forms part of the company’s plan to reduce emissions and test new rail technology.
TransNamib chief executive officer Desmond Van Jaarsveld said the trial will be assessed using a performance matrix that includes fuel use, reliability, efficiency, maintenance needs and cost.
He said a decision on whether to expand the project will be made after the six-month evaluation.
During the trial, the company will also assess safety measures, staff training and operational procedures linked to hydrogen storage, handling and refuelling.
CMB.TECH will manage hydrogen infrastructure and technical components, while TransNamib focuses on compliance and building internal capacity.
The company’s fleet currently runs on diesel locomotives. It may consider shifting part of the fleet to dual-fuel technology depending on the outcome of the trial.
TransNamib said the long-term use of hydrogen rail will depend on cost, supply and performance under local conditions.
Van Jaarsveld said the company will continue to update its board and the relevant ministry as the trial progresses.
TransNamib manages and operates Namibia’s rail network, providing freight and passenger services that support transport and economic activity.
