- Namibia’s state owned power utility, NamPower, has commenced construction of the 100 MW Sores |Gaib solar project – situated 33 km north-west of Rosh Pinah.
- The commercial operation date is expected in June 2026..
Sores |Gaib, which in Khoekhoegowab means “Power of the Sun”, will be NamPower’s largest Solar PV Power Station to date. Upon completion, the power station will contribute significantly to the national energy mix, displacing a significant amount of imported energy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, Sores |Gaib will play a pivotal role in fostering economic development, enhancing energy independence, and strengthening climate resilience in Namibia.
NamPower’ s total investment in this project stands at N$1.6 billion. The project is funded through a combination of a loan from KfW (German development bank, equivalent to about N$1,3 billion) and the remainder from NamPower’ s own reserves. This loan was facilitated within the framework of the intergovernmental agreement, underscoring the enduring partnership and cordial relations between the Government of Namibia and the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany.
During the construction phase of this project, over 300 direct jobs are expected to be created with the aim of employing local labour and thereby promoting skills development. In addition, the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) Contractor has made a commitment to allocate 25% of the Contract Price, equivalent to N$356 million, towards Local Content. NamPower has prioritized local content participation and skills development as integral components of its implementation strategy.
Also, through the project’s Environmental and Social Management Plan, the company has made firm commitments to preserve the integrity of the environment through protecting biodiversity and promoting responsible labor and community engagement practices.
NamPower’s mandate has always been clear: to generate, transmit, and where required distribute electricity in a manner that is reliable, affordable, and sustainable. In recent years, however, this mandate has gained greater significance as the world responds to the challenge of climate change and the urgency of energy transition.
NamPower Managing Director Kahenge Haulofu emphasized that the 100 MW Sores |Gaib Power Station Project represents progress and a long-term commitment to the sustainable development of our country. “Our country has abundant sun and we as a nation are ready to seize the opportunities that renewable energy offers. The 100 MW Sores IGaib Power Station is a critical step in fulfilling that potential”, he stated in his speech at the groundbreaking event.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
