NamPower celebrated the inauguration of the Auas-Gerus 400-kilovolt transmission line near Dordabis in the │Khomas Region.
This project is part of Nampower's plan to expand its infrastructure and aims to make Namibia energy self-sufficient by 2030.
Key figures from the energy industry, the governor of |Khomas, and other invited guests assembled for the inauguration of the Auas-Gerus 400kV transmission line.
At the inauguration of the 400-kilovolt transmission line, Minister of Mines and Energy Tom Alweendo emphasised the importance of energy infrastructure development for Namibia's progress in advancing the country's development goals.
"One of our paramount goals is to achieve self-sufficiency by 2030, ensuring reliable and competitively priced energy for our industries while also enabling us to export energy to our neighbours. We aim to expand and modernise our physical infrastructure, increase our local electricity-generating capacity, and extend electricity access to all schools and health facilities, thereby improving the lives of our citizens."
Alweendo also underlined the significance of the Auas Gerus transmission line.
The construction of the 400 kV transmission line signifies a significant milestone in Namibia's journey towards energy security and regional cooperation. This backbone infrastructure will facilitate increased regional trade, allowing Namibia to export surplus energy supplies, meet the rising demands of industries, and ensure stability and reliability for investors.
NamPower, the national power utility, funded the infrastructural upgrade, which cost N$873 million.
"This figure encompasses the line cost of N$629 million and the substation upgrade cost of N$241 million. The 287-kilometre-long transmission line, which will be operated at 400 kilovolts, is a strategic and crucial investment in Namibia's electricity transmission network, as it will allow Nampower to maintain pace with the evolving and increasing electricity needs of our country," said Simson Haulofofu, NamPower's MD.
The inauguration of the 400-kilovolt transmission line marks a significant leap forward for Namibia's energy sector, aligning with the priorities of a growing nation.