- Namibia partners with Chinese firms to build a N$1.6 billion, 100 MW solar plant, set for completion by mid-2026.
- The project aims to reduce Namibia’s reliance on electricity imports and stabilise rising tariffs.
- Namibia’s energy demand is projected to grow by 5% annually, and the solar plant will add 100 MW to its current capacity.
Namibia’s state-owned utility, NamPower, has partnered with two Chinese companies to build the country’s largest solar plant. Zhejiang Chint New Energy Development and China Jiangxi International Economic and Technical will develop the 100 MW Rosh Pinah facility, valued at N$1.6 billion (US$89 million). Construction will take 18 months, with commercial operations set for the second quarter of 2026.
This project aims to enhance Namibia’s energy independence, stabilise electricity tariffs, and drive economic growth while promoting environmental sustainability. Namibia imports much of its electricity from Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa’s Eskom. As the nation’s power purchase agreement with Eskom expires in 2025, this solar project will help reduce reliance on imports.
NamPower will cover part of the project’s cost, while the German development bank KfW will contribute 80% of the needed N$1.4 billion (US$78.33 million).
This deal follows a similar agreement in Botswana. In August 2024, a consortium led by China Harbour Engineering Co. signed on to build a 100 MW solar plant there. The US$78.3 million Botswana project, expected to finish by mid-2026, will serve as the country’s second utility-scale renewable facility.
Across Africa, several countries are ramping up their energy capacity. Ghana launched its contractor selection process in May 2024 for the nation’s first nuclear power plant, scheduled to begin construction by December 2024. China National Nuclear Corporation stands among the bidders. In South Africa, which hosts Africa’s only nuclear plant at Koeberg, Eskom plans to add 2,500 MW of new capacity. In July 2024, Eskom secured approval to extend one of Koeberg’s two units by 20 years, keeping it operational until 2044.
Namibia’s new solar plant addresses the country’s growing energy needs. Annual electricity demand is projected to reach 600 MW, growing at 5% per year—currently, Namibia’s installed capacity hovers around 500 MW. The Rosh Pinah project will add 100 MW, helping close the supply gap.
Southern Africa is seeing a broader trend of countries investing in renewable energy. These investments aim to meet increasing demand and reduce dependence on imported power. Through the Rosh Pinah plant, Namibia seeks to boost domestic energy production and diversify its energy mix.
Namibia’s move toward renewable energy underlines its commitment to sustainability and economic growth. The Rosh Pinah solar plant will help meet rising electricity demand and stabilise costs, contributing to a more secure energy future for the nation.