Namibia’s 20 MW Solar Plant Begins

Key Figures & Findings: Solarcentury Africa a company specifically focusing on the development of solar photovoltaic (PV) and storage projects across the African continent. , in partnership with Sino Energy a global provider specializing in electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions, has achieved financial close on a groundbreaking 20 MWp solar photovoltaic (PV) project in Namibia. This solar plant, expected to be operational by Q3 2025, marks the first fully merchant independent power producer in the region, enabling renewable energy trading on the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP). Solarcentury Africa’s CEO, Jason De Carteret, emphasized the importance of this new merchant model, stating it offers a quicker, more flexible approach to energy generation. Namibia’s government and the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board have backed the project, with local company Alensy Energy Solutions constructing the plant, creating 150 jobs.

Statistics & Insights: The $20 million plant will generate 51 GWh annually and offset 8,600 tonnes of CO2 emissions. The power generated will be sold via Solarcentury Trading on SAPP, which will provide potential flexibility for domestic industrial customers.

Future Implications: This merchant project paves the way for similar renewable energy initiatives across Southern Africa, reducing reliance on traditional Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). Solarcentury has plans to replicate this model in Zambia, and Botswana, and further expand within Namibia.

Source: EVWind