Can Namibia's solar PV capacity be expanded?

HopSol spoke with ECP about how Namibia’s solar PV capacity can be expanded and further integrated with the national grid.

Does Namibia have a solar market?

Namibia’s solar market is booming with the country attracting fresh investments and new players. With a focus on both grid-connected and off-grid projects, the country aims to connect 80% of its population to renewables by 2025.

How will solar power benefit Namibia?

The generation of solar power will complement Namibia’s available green energy portfolio, such as hydro-electricity, which already constitutes more than two-thirds of our installed power capacity. Electrifying key parts of our economy and of our neighbours will spur unprecedented economic activity and growth for Namibia and Southern Africa.

How much solar radiation does Namibia have?

The country's average high direct solar insolation is 2200 kWh/m 2 /year, with a cover of minimum clouds . The southern region of Namibia experiences -on average- 11 hours of sunshine/day, and an average direct solar radiation of 3000 kWh/m2/year .

Does Namibia have a country Factsheet?

Specifically for Namibia, country factsheet has been elaborated, including the information on solar resource and PV power potential country statistics, seasonal electricity generation variations, LCOE estimates and cross-correlation with the relevant socio-economic indicators.

Where does Namibia's power come from?

Currently, an estimated 60% of Namibia’s power is imported from regional countries via the Southern African Power Pool, and while hydropower accounts for a large share of the energy mix, biomass and diesel-fired power generation are still heavily relied upon.