The European Union is funding an N$52.6 million solar project to bring renewable energy to 32 households in Swakopmund's DRC informal settlement. This solar project aims to improve electricity access for underprivileged Namibians and address energy poverty.
Solar Projects: Providing Clean and Sustainable Energy
The European Union (EU) is funding an N$52.6 million solar project in Swakopmund, Namibia. This project will bring renewable energy to 32 households in the DRC informal settlement. This initiative is part of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the EU and the Environment Investment Fund of Namibia (EIF).
This solar project is the first of its kind in Swakopmund and marks a significant step toward addressing energy poverty. H.E. Ana Beatriz Martins, the EU’s Ambassador to Namibia, emphasized the importance of this project.
She stated that the solar system project would help provide clean and sustainable energy to the 32 households. According to Martins, this initiative is an excellent example of how renewable energy can improve the lives of those in need.
EU’s Commitment to Renewable Energy in Namibia
The EU is committed to supporting Namibia in its renewable energy goals. Ambassador Martins highlighted that the EU is not only focusing on Namibia’s hydrogen economy but also ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to electricity. Renewable energy is a vital tool for reducing energy poverty and increasing universal energy access.
Renewable energy
“Renewable energy is the fastest and most cost-effective way to fight energy poverty in Africa,” said Martins. She added that reducing the dependency on imported energy would greatly benefit the country. The EU's commitment to renewable energy projects in Namibia is part of its broader development policy.
Namibia is working toward achieving universal energy access and energy independence by 2030. The government aims to have 70% of the country’s energy needs met by renewable sources by that time. Solar projects like the one in Swakopmund are crucial in helping the country reach these goals.
The partnership between the EU and Namibia exemplifies how international cooperation can drive progress in renewable energy. The solar project in Swakopmund was implemented in cooperation with the Shackdwellers Federation of Namibia.
Global Climate Change Alliance Plus (GCCA+) in Namibia
The EU is also supporting Namibia through its Global Climate Change Alliance Plus (GCCA+) initiative. Through this program, the EU provides technical assistance to the Namibian Government. The goal is to help the country meet its climate pledges under the Paris Climate Agreement. This support aligns with Namibia’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), which outlines its climate goals.
The GCCA+ program in Namibia focuses on strengthening climate change policies and frameworks. The program also aims to improve coordination between institutions working on climate change. These efforts will help Namibia meet its ambitious climate targets.
One of the pilot projects under this initiative is the "Towards an Inclusive Design of the Renewable Energy Transition" (TIDRET) project. TIDRET aims to provide access to electricity for at least 300 vulnerable households using innovative renewable energy solutions. The electrification of the 32 households in Swakopmund is part of this broader project.
TIDRET Solar Project and Future Expansion
The TIDRET solar project in Swakopmund is just the beginning. As part of Namibia's broader renewable energy transition, more projects are expected to follow. The goal is to expand access to clean energy across the country, especially in underserved areas.
The success of the Swakopmund project could serve as a model for future initiatives. By using solar power to electrify informal settlements, Namibia can make significant progress toward its energy goals. The country is not only reducing its reliance on imported energy but also providing clean and affordable energy to those who need it most.
The European Union sees renewable energy as a cornerstone of its development policy in Namibia. The EU’s support for projects like the TIDRET solar project is part of its long-term vision for a sustainable and inclusive energy transition in the country.
The EU-funded solar project in Swakopmund is a significant step toward achieving energy access for all Namibians. The project not only provides clean energy but also sets an example for future renewable energy initiatives in the country.