NAMIBIA – NamPower, a state-owned utility, has secured a N$1.3 billion (US$72.61m) loan from the German Development Cooperation through KfW Development Bank to fund the construction of the country’s largest solar power plant.
The 100 MW solar facility, located near Rosh Pinah in southern Namibia, aims to harness the region’s abundant solar resources and strengthen the country’s energy security.
The Rosh Pinah 100 MW Photovoltaic (PV) Project will be constructed near the town of Rosh Pinah, a location chosen for its optimal solar conditions.
The project benefits from its proximity to the existing national power grid, allowing NamPower to avoid additional infrastructure investments for transmission and connectivity and ensuring a more efficient deployment of the solar plant.
The loan provided by KfW will cover approximately 80% of the total project costs, with NamPower contributing the remaining 20% of its funds.
This substantial financial support allows the project to move on a larger scale, extending its capacity from the originally planned 70 MW to 100 MW.
Speaking at the signing of the loan agreement, NamPower Managing Director Kahenge Haulofu highlighted the project’s broader implications, emphasizing that the partnership with KfW extends beyond financial considerations.
“It’s a collaboration for sustainability, progress, and environmental stewardship. Together, we are making a statement that economic growth and environmental responsibility are not mutually exclusive – they are complementary,” Haulofu said.
He noted that the partnership sets the tone for future collaboration aimed at fostering sustainable growth in Namibia.
Beatrice Lucke, KfW Development Bank’s Country Director, echoed Haulofu’s sentiments, commending NamPower for its leadership in driving the project forward.
“The 20% own contribution, together with the KfW concessional loan, has enabled the PV project to expand from 70 MW to 100 MW,” she remarked, adding that NamPower’s cooperation has been outstanding throughout the process.
Once operational, the Rosh Pinah solar plant will significantly contribute to Namibia’s energy security by diversifying the energy mix and reducing reliance on imported electricity.
The project sets a precedent for large-scale renewable energy projects in the country, demonstrating that solar energy is a viable and essential component of Namibia’s future energy landscape.
In line with Namibia’s broader energy goals, this solar project aligns with efforts to transition towards a more sustainable and self-sufficient energy sector.
The successful implementation of this project is expected to spur further investments in renewable energy infrastructure across the country.
NamPower’s collaboration with KfW underlines the growing importance of international partnerships in achieving energy resilience and environmental sustainability in Namibia.
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