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Namibia is intensifying its sulphuric acid production to meet the growing demands of its burgeoning critical minerals sector. This move comes as the country positions itself as a pivotal player in the global green energy transition.
By Ryan Chigoche
Sulphuric acid is integral to the extraction processes of these metals, which are crucial for clean energy technologies. Currently, Namibia imports a significant portion of its sulphuric acid, a situation that is expected to change with the new initiatives.
In that drive, Green Metals Refining and Vedanta have unveiled plans to establish and revive production facilities, respectively, to support the increasing output of essential minerals like uranium, copper, and manganese.
Green Metals Refining, based in London, has announced an initial investment of US$59 million for the first phase of a sulphuric acid plant in Walvis Bay.
The facility is projected to produce 175,000 metric tons annually, with plans to scale up to 720,000 tons. This plant will be part of a larger manganese refinery and aims to supply domestic uranium and copper mines.
“As Namibia is a net importer of sulphuric acid with a large pipeline of acid-consuming projects, we have established a compelling business case that can benefit local third-party metals projects,” said Derk Hartman, CEO of Green Metals Refining.
Meanwhile, Vedanta plans to recommission its sulphuric acid plant at the Skorpion zinc operations within the next four to six months. The facility, which has been idle since 2020, is expected to produce approximately 1,000 tons per day.
Namibia, the world’s third-largest producer of uranium, is rapidly expanding its critical minerals sector. The country is home to several significant mining projects, including the Lofdal heavy rare earths project, which is one of the largest deposits of dysprosium and terbium outside China.
These elements are essential for high-temperature permanent magnets used in defense and advanced technology applications.
The government’s strategic focus on developing a green hydrogen and ammonia industry, leveraging its coastal location and renewable energy potential, further underscores Namibia’s commitment to becoming a leading hub for green energy minerals.
With these developments, Namibia is not only addressing its domestic sulphuric acid needs but also strengthening its position in the global supply chains for critical minerals.
