Organic Energy Solutions (OES), a subsidiary of the Ohlthaver & List Group of Companies, has become Namibia's first and only wood-chip biomass company to achieve SURE (Sustainable Resources Verification Scheme) certification for energy production, marking a significant milestone for the country's renewable energy sector.
The certification, following a rigorous three-day audit, verifies that OES's biomass operations meet the strict sustainability standards required by the European Union's Renewable Energy Directive (RED II). This achievement positions OES as one of only a handful of SURE-certified energy companies in Namibia, with others operating in the charcoal industry.
"Being the only SURE-certified wood-chip biomass company in Namibia gives us a strong competitive edge in local and international markets," said Gero von der Wense, Managing Director of Organic Energy Solutions. "The certification ensures compliance with strict EU sustainability standards, allowing us to access premium export markets and supply sustainability-focused industries. This leadership position enhances our appeal to stakeholders and customers committed to green energy and climate goals."
The SURE certification opens doors to broader market opportunities, locally and internationally. OES harvests biomass exclusively from invasive encroacher bush species that threaten Namibia's biodiversity, water availability and agricultural productivity, making the operation an important ecological intervention that restores natural balance to the country's savanna ecosystems.
Franklin Angermund, Public Affairs and Sustainability Manager at Namibia Breweries Limited, a major client of OES, welcomed the certification: "A SURE certification directly supports NBL’s Brew a Better Namibia strategy and gives us surety that the biomass supplied to NBL is responsibly sourced, fully traceable and delivers real environmental benefits. This assurance positions NBL as a credible partner in driving sustainable energy solutions that protect Namibia's environment whilst supporting long-term economic resilience."
The achievement also represents a breakthrough for Namibia's biomass industry as a whole. Progress Kashandula, Chief Executive Officer of the Namibia Biomass Industry Group (N-BiG), emphasised the broader significance: "Having a SURE-certified member like Organic Energy Solutions is a major milestone for N-BiG and Namibia's biomass sector. It demonstrates that Namibia's bioenergy value chain meets international sustainability and traceability standards. This achievement strengthens Namibia's position in global markets and enables the country's bioenergy products to access the European Union market."
OES's certification directly supports the O&L Group's broader sustainability goals, including carbon emission reduction, responsible sourcing and local economic development. Looking ahead, the company aims to expand its contribution to biodiversity and rangeland restoration whilst creating jobs in rural communities. OES also plans to invest in cleaner technologies and explore regional and international markets for sustainable biomass.
