Namibia has received approval for a $138.5 million project financed by the World Bank. for the first time. This project aims to boost the country’s transmission network and incorporate more renewable energy sources into its electricity system. The project will be implemented by Nampower (the national electricity utility).

Namibia has a unique leadership in transitioning towards a greener and more sustainable future. The World Bank is thrilled to help Namibia in the expansion of the energy generation and this project aligns with the country’s 2nd  Harambee Prosperity Plan (HPPII), which will support NamPower in developing future renewable energy, said Satu Kahkonen, World Bank Country Director for Namibia.

The project consists of three key components: It will focus on the development of the second Auas-Kokerboom transmission line, the establishment of a utility-scale Battery Energy Storage System facility, and the provision of technical support to help Nampower for creating bankable renewable energy projects, boosting the social economic benefits of the projects and create job opportunities, skills development and female employment during the design and implementation of utility-led projects.

Kahenge S Haulofu, NamPower Managing Director showed his enthusiasm for this project, by saying it’s a critical investment that will strengthen Namibia’s power grid,  will be able to maintain pace with the evolving demand of the need for electricity in the country. The line unlocks access to more renewable energy sources within Namibia and permits regional electricity trade. Moreover, the development of large-scale battery storage systems will further support our transition to clean energy by storing excess renewable power.

Namibia is blessed with an abundance of renewable energy resources, however, installed renewable capacity is just over 30% of total generation in the country. This project’s investments strengthen the power grid by incorporating more VRE (variable renewable energy) sources and aim to minimise outage risks, support load growth, and enhance power trade opportunities in the Southern African Power Pool. 

The project with grant funding from the IBRD Fund for Innovative Global Public Goods Solutions and the  Green Climate Fund will develop the second utility-scale battery storage facility in the country. Further promoting renewable energy integration, improving grid stability, and managing demand peaks.

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