Faith Nyasuguta
Namibia’s state-owned utility, NamPower, has announced a significant agreement with two Chinese companies to build the largest solar power plant in the country. This project, expected to add 100 megawatts (MW) to Namibia’s current 500 MW energy capacity, is set to reduce the nation’s dependence on electricity imports from Zambia and South Africa.
The agreement follows the recent China-Africa Summit, where China pledged substantial financial support to enhance infrastructure and green energy projects across Africa, committing $50 billion in aid and investments.
Namibia is ideally suited for solar power due to its high levels of solar radiation. Despite this potential, the country faces challenges in expanding access to electricity, especially in rural areas. Currently, fewer than 10% of rural households have access to electricity, and up to 60% of Namibians remain off the grid. Off-grid solar systems present a viable solution for providing clean, reliable, and affordable energy, but securing financing for such projects remains a significant hurdle for many rural communities.
The new solar power plant, with an estimated cost of 1.4 billion Namibian dollars ($78.33 million), will be primarily financed by the German development bank KfW, which will cover 80% of the project costs. NamPower will contribute the remaining 20% from its own resources.
The construction will be carried out by China Jiangxi International Economic and Technical Cooperation Co. Ltd and Chint New Energy Development (Zhejiang) Co. Ltd, with an expected completion time of 18 months. The plant is slated to commence commercial operations by the second quarter of 2026.
NamPower’s Managing Director, Kahenge Haulofu, emphasized that this new solar facility will help stabilize future electricity tariffs, promote economic growth, and enhance environmental sustainability in Namibia. He highlighted that this partnership reflects Namibia’s broader strategy to leverage international cooperation to boost its renewable energy capacity.
The China-Africa Summit’s pledge of financial support aligns with Namibia’s goals. China’s investment in renewable energy projects, like this solar power plant, is part of a broader commitment to support sustainable development in Africa. This project not only strengthens economic ties between China and Namibia but also positions Namibia as a potential leader in Africa’s green energy sector.
As Namibia moves towards energy independence and sustainability, the construction of the solar power plant represents a key milestone. It signals the country’s commitment to renewable energy and its readiness to embrace innovative solutions to address the pressing challenges of energy access and environmental sustainability.
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