Nopal Renewable Energy Corporation has confirmed that it is in early-stage discussions with two major cement producers as part of its broader push to promote renewable energy solutions and carbon mitigation credits.
The company’s innovative use of nopal cactus as a bioenergy feedstock is gaining attention, particularly for its sustainability and potential to transform arid, non-agricultural lands.
Stephen McNeill, a partner at Nopal Renewable Energy Corporation, confirmed the increased interest from heavy power-consuming industries
“Interestingly, we are receiving an increasing number of inquiries from cement companies seeking renewable energy solutions and carbon mitigation credits. We are currently in discussions with two major producers who recognise the dual benefits of this approach,” he told The Brief.
The nopal cactus, which requires minimal water and thrives in arid conditions, is converted into biomass for biogas or biofuel, offering an eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuels.
McNeill emphasised that industries such as cement and mining, which rely heavily on fossil diesel for generators, stand to benefit significantly.
“By shifting to renewable energy sources located close to their operations, these companies can achieve compliance with global net-zero targets, substantially reduce their energy costs, and secure a stable, independent energy supply that supports both environmental and economic goals.”
While the current talks involve companies outside Namibia, McNeill highlighted the broader applicability of Nopal’s solutions.
“These are just two examples among discussions we are having in several countries in Africa and Asia where there are various interests from governments, manufacturers, mining, oil and gas, all seeking carbon credits or electricity or other forms of bioenergy such as renewable liquefied natural gas, methane, etc.,” he said.
In Namibia, Nopal has already begun discussions with potential clients and plans to expand its farm in Maltahöhe.
“Currently, we are in discussions with potential clients in Namibia. While it’s too early to share specific details, these conversations, along with growing interest from neighbouring countries, are driving our decision to expand our farm,” McNeill confirmed.
Nopal’s approach offers additional benefits that differentiate it from other renewable energy sources such as solar.
“Beyond energy production, our approach delivers additional benefits such as carbon capture or mitigation, regenerating degraded land, and providing significant socio-economic benefits to local communities, including job creation and improved food security,” McNeill explained.
“By 2027, Nopal aims to cultivate 5,000 hectares of nopal cactus, with the total reaching 17,500 hectares by 2028,” Nicole Maske, a partner at Nopal said in an interview with The Brief.
Maske described the strategic importance of the Maltahöhe area for the company’s operations.
“The Maltahöhe area offers an unparalleled opportunity for regeneration through nopal cactus cultivation, and we anticipate acquiring and planting additional land in line with our growth strategy,” she said.
The next phase of the project, scheduled to begin in early 2025, will involve expanding the plantation by 500 hectares using new cladodes from the initial phase.
“We aim to have a total of 17,500 hectares fully planted by 2028, establishing Nopal Carbon Farming as a significant contributor to Namibia’s bioenergy and carbon sequestration landscape,” Maske added.
