President Nangolo Mbumba has inaugurated the N$360 million Khan Solar PV Plant, a renewable energy project expected to provide affordable and reliable electricity to approximately 18,500 people.
The plant marks a major milestone in Namibia’s efforts to enhance energy security and drive economic growth.
Speaking at the inauguration, Mbumba emphasized the plant’s significance in attracting further investments to Usakos, fostering long-term economic development, and reducing poverty.
“The development will attract further investments in Usakos, driving long-term economic growth and contributing to poverty reduction,” he said.
During the plant’s construction phase, around 200 direct temporary jobs were created, benefiting the local economy and supporting various businesses, including retail outlets, guesthouses, fuel stations, and catering services.
“I am also informed that during the construction of this project, about 200 direct temporary jobs were created in Usakos and expenditures made which supported various businesses such as retail outlets, guesthouses, fuel stations, catering, and security among others in the town,” Mbumba said.
The Khan Solar PV Plant aligns with Namibia’s broader energy transition under Harambee Prosperity Plans I and II, which aim to shift the country away from fossil fuel dependence toward sustainable energy sources such as solar, wind, and green hydrogen.
“To achieve energy sufficiency and efficiency, development of energy storage technologies that can make up for the intermittent nature of solar energy is essential. However, provision of solar energy must not come at high costs to consumers but should be affordable,” Mbumba said.
Addressing concerns about Namibia’s simultaneous pursuit of oil exploration and renewable energy expansion, Mbumba stated that the country is pursuing a balanced energy strategy.
“The development of our newly discovered oil resources is not contradictory to our decarbonization agenda. It is part of a strategic energy mix that will enable us to transition sustainably,” he explained.
The Khan Solar PV Plant is a joint venture between Alpha Namibia Industries Renewable Energy Power (ANIREP) and Aussenkehr Energy Investment. The project contributes to Namibia’s goal of achieving energy sufficiency and accessibility, reinforcing its commitment to a diversified and sustainable energy future.
