International financial institution the World Bank is providing financial backing for a $138.5 million electricity project in Namibia.
The project will strengthen Namibia’s electricity transmission network while advancing the integration of renewable energy in national grid infrastructure.
Implemented by Namibia’s state-owned power utility NamPower, the project comprises the development of the second Auas-Kokerboom transmission line as well as a utility-scale battery energy storage system.
The financing also serves to promote technical assistance to support NamPower in the development of renewable energy projects across the country.
The aim is to reduce energy imports, improve the management of demand peaks and enhance grid stability.
“The World Bank is delighted to support Namibia’s commitment to expand domestic energy generation with renewable solutions, consistent with the country’s Second Harambee Prosperity Plan,” stated Satu Kahkonen, World Bank Country Director for Namibia.
The project will enable NamPower to meet the changing electricity needs of the country while improving skills development and employment creation.
Through the initiative, Namibia will be able to minimize power outages, support load growth while supporting the uptake of cleaner sources of power generation.
NamPower Managing Director, Kahenge S Haulofu, stated that the project “is one of the major strategic and crucial investments towards Namibia’s electricity transmission network.
The line will be key to unlocking increased access to variable renewable energy within Namibia, as well as facilitate regional electricity trading.”
