PPP solar plant to supply ArandisA new N$80 million power plant is expected to supply the town of Arandis with ample renewable energy. Erongo RED signs with Arandis Solar Energy The Erongo Regional Electricity Distributor (RED) on Monday signed a 25-year power purchase agreement that will see it obtain solar energy from a privately built, three-megawatt plant.The partnership agreement between the Walvis Bay-based power utility and OLC Arandis Solar Energy will generate enough power to supply the town of Arandis.
At a media conference on Monday, OLC Arandis Solar Energy Project director Bernd Walbaum said more than 30 people would be employed temporarily during the construction phase, with ground breaking for the solar power plant expected in November.
The project is estimated to cost the company around N$80 million, and operations are expected to start by April 2017.
Once operational, the number of permanent staff needed would number three, Walbaum said.
Local businesses would be hired during the construction period, he said.
“We believe in renewable energy because it is the right way to go for Namibia to avoid importing power,” said Walbaum.
He said an information centre would be set up at Arandis to provide updates on the progress and operation of the solar power plant.
“We want to make more people understand the importance of renewable energy and how it can improve power supply in our country.”
Erongo RED chief executive Robert Kahimise said the agreement would save Erongo RED an estimated N$127 million over its lifespan, set at 25 years.
“We are committed to diversifying our energy mix to ensure that electricity consumers reap benefits emanating from renewable energy.
“We also know that reliable supply and distribution of electricity remains and will continue to be an important component in boosting economic development in the region.”