Namibia’s 100 MW Rosh Pinah photovoltaic solar project is set to advance the country’s renewable energy goals. The project will be developed by a partnership between China Jiangxi International Economic and Technical Cooperation Co., Ltd. and China New Energy Development (Zhejiang) Co., Ltd., addressing Namibia’s reliance on imported electricity and moving towards greater energy independence.
78 million USD energy project
China’s growing presence in Africa’s infrastructure sector is highlighted by Namibia’s latest venture. The country has signed an agreement with Chinese firms to develop its largest solar power plant, signaling a significant step forward in its renewable energy strategy. Analysts anticipate that this 18-month project will further China’s role in Africa’s industrialization and green energy development.
Namibia’s state-owned electricity company, NamPower, has inked an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract worth 78 million USD with the Chinese joint venture to establish the 100 MW Rosh Pinah solar photovoltaic plant. This landmark deal represents a major advancement in Namibia’s efforts to enhance its renewable energy infrastructure.
The joint venture, comprising China Jiangxi International Economic and Technical Cooperation Co., Ltd. and China New Energy Development (Zhejiang) Co., Ltd., brings substantial expertise in solar energy projects. As the world shifts toward cleaner energy sources, Namibia is positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s green energy transition.
Strategic importance of the Rosh Pinah project
At the signing ceremony, NamPower CEO Kahenge Haulofu underscored the project’s national significance. He described it as a cornerstone of NamPower’s strategic plan for 2020-2025, which aims to ensure energy security and reduce dependency on electricity imports.
« The Rosh Pinah project is of great national importance », Haulofu emphasized. « It will support the government’s goals of securing electricity supply and achieving self-sufficiency, as outlined in key national plans like the Fifth National Development Plan and the Integrated National Resource Plan ».
Namibia’s current dependency on electricity imports, mainly from South Africa, challenges its energy autonomy. The Rosh Pinah project represents a strategic effort to address this issue by harnessing domestic solar potential, which is crucial for Namibia’s long-term economic stability and growth.
Economic growth and sustainability goals
The 100 MW photovoltaic plant is seen as a driving force for economic growth and a pillar of Namibia’s sustainable development agenda. The investment is expected to generate significant economic benefits. In addition to creating jobs during the construction phase, the plant’s operation will help stabilize electricity tariffs, benefiting both individual consumers and the broader economy.
As Namibia transitions towards a low-carbon economy, the Rosh Pinah solar plant plays a vital role in reducing the country’s carbon footprint. The plant will help meet renewable energy commitments outlined in Namibia’s national energy policy, positioning the country as a regional leader in environmentally-friendly energy production.
Chinese expertise fuels Namibia’s renewable ambitions
The partnership with Chinese companies underscores China’s expanding influence in Africa’s renewable energy sector. Chinese firms have become significant players in Africa’s industrialization over the past decade, particularly in renewable energy infrastructure. Their expertise in solar energy development is crucial for countries like Namibia as they harness their renewable resources and transition to cleaner energy.
For Namibia, collaborating with China Jiangxi International Economic and Technical Cooperation Co., Ltd. and China New Energy Development (Zhejiang) Co., Ltd. provides valuable technical expertise and investment capital. These companies have a proven track record in delivering large-scale renewable energy projects globally, making them ideal partners for Namibia’s largest solar energy initiative.
