NAMPOWER, Namibia’s leading power utility, has set an ambitious goal to achieve 80 percent energy self-sufficiency by the year 2028, aiming to enhance the country’s energy security and reduce dependence on electricity imports.
Kahenge Haulofu, NamPower’s managing director, shared insights into the utility’s strategic vision, stating, ‘NamPower is well on its strategic path to implement local generation projects. In addition, NamPower manages a diverse supply portfolio that includes its power stations, local Independent Power Producers (IPPs), and diversified import contracts.’
NamPower’s endeavours towards energy self-sufficiency involve the active pursuit of renewable local generation projects, with a combined capacity of 274 megawatts (MW). These projects, once completed, will play a crucial role in achieving Namibia’s energy independence goals.
Among the key projects contributing to this initiative are the Diaz Wind (44MW), Khan Solar PV (20MW), CERIM Luderitz Wind (50MW), Rosh Pinah PV (70MW), Biomass (40MW), and Anixas Firm power (50MW) projects.
Highlighting the progress, Haulofu noted, ‘The 54MW ANIXAS II power project is expected to be commissioned in June/July this year.’
Namibia currently relies on imports for up to 70 percent of its electricity needs, primarily sourced from neighbouring countries like Zambia and South Africa. However, challenges in these countries’ electricity generation capacities have led to a reduction in imports.
Since July last year, Namibia’s electricity imports from Zambia have decreased from 180MW to 120MW, following Zambia’s announcement of power cuts and export limits due to drought conditions impacting hydropower generation.
NamPower’s strategic focus on renewable energy projects not only aligns with global sustainability goals but also positions Namibia to achieve greater energy security and resilience in the face of external challenges.