By: Nghiinomenwa-vali Hangala
The Development Bank of Namibia (DBN) has approved N$164 million to co-fund the expansion of the existing 5.4 MWp Rosh Pinah Solar Park in the //Kharas Region, the local development financier announced this week in a statement.
This follows the bank’s earlier investment of N$58 million in 2022 towards Phase One, which the Bank explained demonstrated the viability of clean energy generation to support industrial and community needs.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, DBN head Titus Ndove, explained that the partnership reflects the impact that strategic development finance can have in shaping a resilient and competitive Namibia.
He added that the expansion of the Rosh Pinah Solar Park demonstrates the bank’s commitment to financing transformative projects that secure Namibia’s energy future.
“By enabling clean, reliable power for industrial growth and community development, we are accelerating the country’s transition to sustainable energy while unlocking long-term economic value,” he said.
DBN highlighted that their further investment in the Rosh Pinah Solar project aligned with the bank’s mandate to advance Namibia’s socio-economic development through strategic financing that strengthens infrastructure, promotes regional development, and enhances national energy security.
Adding to the project also contributes to economic diversification in the southern region, where activity outside of mining remains limited, and reduces Namibia’s reliance on carbon-intensive energy sources.
The expansion further strengthens Namibia’s commitment to global sustainability by directly supporting key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 7 (Affordable and clean
energy), SDG 8 (Decent work and economic growth), and SDG 13 (Climate action).
Phase Two is an 11 MWp expansion, and is being developed to meet up to 30% of the increased annual energy demand for the Rosh Pinah Zinc Mine.
This demand is driven by the RP2.0 mine expansion.
In addition, the project is expected to supply up to 30% of the annual electricity needs of the RoshSkor Township, contributing directly to the town’s energy security and reliability, the DBN wrote.
Construction and commissioning of the expanded plant are expected to be completed by August 2026.
erastus@thevillager.com.na
