Namibia is building its largest solar photovoltaic plant — a 100-megawatt facility in the Karas region — to reduce its reliance on imported electricity. The N$1.6 billion project will be engineered and constructed by two Chinese companies, significantly boosting the country's energy capacity.
Project to Cost $89 Million
Namibia is set to take a major step toward energy self-sufficiency with the construction of its largest solar photovoltaic plant. The state-owned electricity provider, NamPower has signed an agreement with two Chinese companies to build the 100-megawatt Rosh Pinah solar plant.
This project — which is expected to cost around N$1.6 billion (approximately $89 million) — marks a significant development in Namibia’s push to reduce its reliance on imported electricity. Once completed, this facility will be the largest of its kind in Namibia, thereby contributing significantly to the country's energy capacity.
The two Chinese companies involved in the project are China Jiangxi International Economic and Technical Cooperation Corp. and Zhejiang CHINT New Energy Development Co. These firms will handle the engineering and construction of the solar photovoltaic plant, which will be located in the Karas region.
Impact of the Photovoltaic Plant on Namibia’s Power Supply
Namibia is currently a net importer of electricity, relying on power from neighbouring countries such as Zambia and South Africa. The country’s total installed power capacity stands at around 500 megawatts, which is insufficient to meet its growing energy demands.
Solar panels 500 megawatts.
The addition of the 100-megawatt Rosh Pinah plant will significantly boost Namibia’s energy capacity, helping to reduce its dependence on imported electricity. The new plant will also help to stabilize future electricity tariffs, which have been rising due to the costs associated with importing power.
According to NamPower Managing Director Kahenge Haulofu, the photovoltaic plant will support the country’s economic growth by providing a more stable and sustainable energy supply. Additionally, the project is expected to promote environmental sustainability by reducing the country's reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to its renewable energy goals.
Funding the Photovoltaic Plant
Financing for the Rosh Pinah photovoltaic plant will come from a combination of sources. Approximately 80% of the project's cost will be covered by a loan from KfW, the German state-owned development bank. The remaining 20% will be funded by NamPower’s balance sheet.
NamPower has estimated that the solar photovoltaic plant will take about 18 months to build. Construction is scheduled to begin soon, with commercial operations expected to commence in the second quarter of 2026.
The companies involved — China Jiangxi International Economic and Technical Cooperation Corp. and Zhejiang CHINT New Energy Development Co. — are well-regarded for their expertise in renewable energy projects.
Both companies are expected to bring advanced engineering and technical skills to the project, ensuring that the plant is built to the highest standards. The construction process is expected to create jobs and contribute to local economic development — particularly in the Karas region where the plant will be located.
Economic and Environmental Benefits of the Photovoltaic Plant
The Rosh Pinah solar plant is a significant milestone in Namibia’s journey toward energy independence. By increasing the country’s installed power capacity, the plant will help to secure a more reliable and affordable energy supply for businesses and households alike.
Moreover, the plant will play a crucial role in promoting environmental sustainability. Namibia has set ambitious targets for increasing the share of renewable energy in its power mix, and the Rosh Pinah project is a major step in that direction.
As Namibia moves forward with the construction of its largest solar photovoltaic plant, the country is positioning itself as a leader in renewable energy in Africa. The Rosh Pinah project is not only a key part of Namibia’s energy strategy but also a symbol of its commitment to a greener and more sustainable future.
With construction set to begin soon, Namibia can look forward to the benefits that this photovoltaic plant will bring. From reducing power imports to stabilising tariffs and promoting environmental sustainability, the Rosh Pinah solar plant represents a brighter and cleaner future for the country.