Namibia Workshop Presentations

Presenter: Detlof von Oertzen

This paper introduces two Namibian bioenergy projects that rely on solid biomass as feedstock. It provides a brief introduction to the typical value chain elements encountered in solid biomass projects. It presents a comparison and discussion about one particularly relevant part of the solid biomass value chain elements, i.e. harvesting, and shows how the options to use manual versus mechanical harvesting influences the labour, capital expenditure and revenue base of solid biomass projects. A summary of the value chain potentials is presented, followed by a framework to assess and evaluate the operating space in which biomass projects would typically take place in Namibia. The paper concludes with reflections on lessons learned in solid biomass value chains, and their relevance to forthcoming bioenergy endeavours in Namibia, focusing on opportunities and constraints, and highlighting the enabling factors required to create bioenergy activities in the country.