Namibia Collaborates with Chinese Corporations to Construct an $89 Million Solar Energy Facility

In the heart of southern Africa, Namibia and Botswana are making significant strides in renewable energy, with both countries announcing plans for large-scale solar power plants. These developments are crucial for these nations, which currently rely heavily on power imports from neighbouring countries like Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa's Eskom.

Namibia's Rosh Pinah solar power plant, with a capacity of 100 MW, is set to commence commercial operations in the second quarter of 2026. The German development bank, KfW (Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau), will provide 80% of the financing for this project, amounting to N$1.4 billion (US$78.33 million). NamPower, Namibia's state-owned utility, will finance the remaining portion from its own balance sheet. This solar facility will add an additional 100 MW to Namibia's installed power capacity, a significant boost for the country's energy needs.

The Rosh Pinah plant is a cornerstone of Namibia's efforts to promote economic growth, stabilize potential electricity tariff hikes, enhance energy independence, and promote environmental sustainability. The project aims to support these objectives by reducing Namibia's reliance on power imports, particularly from Eskom, whose power purchase agreement with Namibia is set to expire in 2025.

Meanwhile, Botswana is also embracing solar power. A consortium of Chinese firms, led by China Harbour Engineering Co., has signed a deal to build a 100 MW solar project in Botswana. This project, expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2026, will be Botswana's second utility-scale renewable energy facility, costing US$78.3 million.

South Africa, too, is looking to expand its nuclear power capacity. The country seeks to add 2,500 MW of new capacity to its existing nuclear power station, Koeberg. Eskom, South Africa's power utility, was granted approval to operate one of Koeberg's units for an additional 20 years, extending its lifespan to July 2044.

In neighbouring Ghana, the contractor selection process for the country's first nuclear power plant began in May 2024. China National Nuclear Corporation is one of the contractors bidding for this project.

As these countries move towards renewable energy, it's clear that the future of power generation in southern Africa is looking bright and sustainable. With growing annual electricity demands projected at 5%, Namibia's current generating capacity of around 500 MW will soon be insufficient. It's essential that these countries continue to invest in renewable energy to meet their growing energy needs while promoting economic growth and environmental sustainability.

Namibia Collaborates with Chinese Corporations to Construct an $89 Million Solar Energy Facility