Namibia Power Corporation (NamPower) managing director Simson Haulofu says the N$1.6-billion 100PV Sores /Gaib Power Station project is set to recruit over 300 workers.
"NamPower's total investment in this project stands at N$1.6 billion, and we regard every dollar spent as an investment in Namibia's future," he says.
Haulofu was speaking at the 100PV Sores /Gaib Power Station groundbreaking ceremony at Rosh Pinah on Thursday.
Keep up with the latest headlines on WhatsApp | LinkedIn
Photovoltaic (PV) is a solar technology process that converts sunlight into electricity.
The project is funded through a combination of a N$ 1.3-billion loan from German KfW Development Bank and N$300 million from NamPower's own reserves.
The Sores /Gaib Power Station gets its name from Khoekhoegowab and means 'power of the sun'. It is set to be the biggest solar plant in the country.
"This solar PV power station is not just another generation facility.
It will be our largest solar PV power station to date, and when completed, will contribute significantly to our national energy mix," Haulofu said.
He also added that this is part of NamPower's plan to generate, transmit and distribute electricity in a manner that is reliable, affordable and sustainable.
Creating jobs
The solar power plant, Haulofu said, will contribute significantly to reducing the amount of imported energy and reliance on fossil fuels.
It will also contribute significantly to economic development, energy independence, and climate resilience.
"Today, we are not merely turning soil for a new project, we are turning a page in Namibia's journey towards cleaner, greener and sustainable energy," he noted.
The construction phase is expected to recruit over 300 people, prioritising local participation and skills development.
"During the construction phase, we expect to create over 300 direct jobs, with the aim to employ local labour and thereby promote skills development," he said.
Haulofu said the power company is committed to preserving the environment through biodiversity, responsible labour and community engagement practices.
"The vision for this project is not just generation.
Sign up for free AllAfrica Newsletters
Get the latest in African news delivered straight to your inbox
It is about transforming how we power our lives, how we manage our natural resources, how we create jobs," he said.
Through the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) method, the contractor will spend 25%, N$356 million, on local sub-contractors and businesses.
SKILLS TRANSFER
The EPC contractor is a joint venture between China Jiangxi International Corporation (CJC) and Chint New Energy Development.
CJC spokesperson Dan Yan says they plan to deliver a solar power station that meets the highest international standards.
"Our goal is simple, to deliver a solar power facility that meets and exceeds expectations in quality, safety, efficiency and performance," he says.
Beyond their professional commitments, Yan adds that CJC will employ local labourers and transfer skills with the project.
"We are committed to employing local labourers as much as we can, supporting skills transfer, and ensuring that this project leaves a positive and lasting impact on the people of Rosh Pinah and beyond."
