Eenhana, Nakayale, and Valombola Vocational Training Centres now have photovoltaic solar plants at their centres.

The green energy will ensure that the three centres have a reliable, uninterrupted power supply in the event of electrical outages.

Each centre received a solar plant and backup generator from the promotion of a technical and vocational education training programme, which is a joint cooperation between the Namibia Training Authority (NTA) and GIZ.

The Minister of Higher Education, Technology, and Innovation, Dr. Itah Kandjii-Murangi, who inaugurated the solar plants, says the solar plants will contribute to the objective of increasing the proportion of renewable energy sources in the energy mix.

"The installation of this plant is a step in the right direction, and we expect a wide range of benefits to accrue over the short to medium term, including minimum maintenance, reduced operational costs, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and decreased energy expenses."

Namibia enjoys a high number of annual sunshine hours that offer one of the highest solar energy yields in the world, and the European Union is pleased to help Namibia install photovoltaic solar plants at some of its public VTCs.

"This is the last stretch of the project, with the completion of the design, construction, installation of comprehensive solar panels and systems, security setups, and solar lighting for the three location training centres. The goal is to offer specialised centres with diverse training programmes that are tailored to meet industry needs, particularly at higher levels on the national qualifications framework," said EU Ambassador to Namibia, Ana Beatriz Martins.

Solar systems are perfect for Namibia's arid environment, as they are extremely durable and require little upkeep.

The installed panes can last up to 25 years or more and are made to endure Namibia's extreme weather conditions, such as high winds and sandstorms.