Namibia Opens First Solar Wheeling

Key Figures & Findings: Sustainable Power Solutions (SPS), in partnership with B2Gold Namibia, the Oelofse family, and Fortitude Property Group, has commissioned the country’s first-ever solar wheeling project under NamPower’s Modified Single Buyer (MSB) framework. The 10 MW Maxwell Solar Plant, a N$200 million ($10.6m) investment, will supply power directly to B2Gold’s Otjikoto Mine via NamPower’s national grid. The project, located at Maxwell Farm near Otjiwarongo, marks a landmark in Namibia’s renewable transition, showcasing how private producers can deliver green power to corporate off-takers.

Statistics & Insights: B2Gold’s Otjikoto Mine, Namibia’s largest gold producer, first introduced a 7 MW on-site solar plant in 2018, which provided 13% of its electricity needs. With the addition of Maxwell Solar, renewable energy now supplies a significantly larger share of the mine’s demand. SPS agreed to a shorter eight-year PPA,  aligned with the mine’s approved life of operations, highlighting both the ambition and risk of the project.

Future Implications: If successful, the project could unlock a wave of private-sector participation in Namibia’s clean energy sector. The MSB framework offers a replicable model for corporate offtake agreements, potentially accelerating renewable adoption across mining and industry. Over time, this approach could reduce Namibia’s dependence on imports, strengthen grid security, and help the country progress toward its long-term climate and energy goals.

Source: LinkedIn – Sustainable Power Solutions

Quick Take: Namibia launches its first solar wheeling plant, a $10.6m project powering B2Gold’s Otjikoto Mine and setting a model for private renewable energy deals.