Namibia has secured approval for its inaugural energy project funded by the World Bank. The project aims to enhance the reliability of the country’s transmission network and incorporate renewable energy into its electricity system.
The national electricity utility, NamPower, will implement the $138.5 million project.
The project is structured around three components:
(i) development of the second Auas-Kokerboom transmission line.
(ii) development of a utility scale Battery Energy Storage System facility.
(iii) technical assistance activities to support NamPower develop bankable renewable energy projects and enhance the socio-economic benefits of their projects.
The project will facilitate the development of a systematic socio-economic framework to support job creation, skills development and female employment during design and implementation of utility led projects.
“Namibia leads the transition towards a greener future with the Transmission Expansion and Energy Storage Project. The World Bank supports Namibia’s commitment to renewable energy, aligning with the country’s Second Harambee Prosperity Plan HPPII. This project aids NamPower in future renewable energy endeavors.” – Satu Kahkonen, World Bank Country Director for Namibia
A strategic investment in Namibia’s sustainable development initiatives
Namibia boasts exceptional renewable energy resources, yet its installed renewable capacity accounts for just over 30% of total generation. The investment in this project to enhance the power grid is crucial for facilitating the integration of additional variable renewable energy sources into the system.
Additionally, it seeks to reduce outage risks, accommodate load growth, and unlock future opportunities for power trade within the Southern African Power Pool.
“NamPower welcomes the project financing approval, a crucial investment for Namibia’s electricity transmission network. It will meet the country’s growing electricity demands and increase access to renewable energy. Additionally, it will facilitate regional electricity trading and integrate a second utility-scale battery energy storage system.” – Kahenge S Haulofu, NamPower Managing Director