Namibia is boosting solar power with the Naruchas project, aiming to cut reliance on imports and expand renewable energy production.
Namibia expands solar power production
Namibia is increasing its solar power production to reduce its dependence on imported electricity, with the national electricity company NamPower leading the effort. This expansion aims to strengthen the country’s energy security and reduce costs associated with importing power.Naruchas solar project awarded to consortium
The Naruchas solar project, with a capacity of 20 megawatts, has been awarded to a group of companies led by the Canadian firm JCM Power. The consortium also includes Broadreach Energy, Galen Group Investment, and Southern Africa Group.Broader solar development program underway
The Naruchas project is part of a larger plan to build six solar power plants, each with a 20 MW capacity, totaling 120 MW. This initiative involves collaboration with independent energy producers and complements existing public solar projects in the country.Electricity imports remain high in Namibia
In August 2026, Namibia imported 65 percent of its electricity, while only 35 percent was produced locally. This highlights the country’s continued reliance on imported power despite efforts to expand local generation capacity.Southern Africa sees growing private sector involvement
Namibia’s push for solar energy aligns with a regional trend in southern Africa, where private companies are increasingly involved in electricity generation. South Africa and Zambia are also encouraging private investment in renewable energy projects.Details of Naruchas project remain unclear
The exact investment amount, financing arrangements, and timeline for the Naruchas project have not been disclosed in recent reports, leaving some aspects of its development uncertain.
