The government continues diversifying its electricity markets to improve energy security, integrate renewable energy and drive economic competition.

The Electricity Control Board (ECB) Board of Directors deputy chairperson Tjama Tjivikua said this during the inauguration of the Diaz Wind Power Plant in Luderitz. 

The N$1,5 billion plant comprises 11 wind turbines with a combined capacity of 44 megawatts. 

It is expected to contribute six per cent of the country's energy consumption and prevent 177 thousand carbon emissions. 

"The government has set a clear course in pursuing less dependency on operations of electricity and importation of energy and the exploration of other energy resources. The Diaz Wind Power Plant is a central part of that story alongside other homegrown projects in the ||Kharas Region and across the country."

Kahenge Haulofu is the Managing Director of NamPower.

"As we expand and diversify our electricity supply, we must also manage costs in consumers' long-term interest. Harnessing domestic wind resources supports these efforts by reducing exposure to fuel price fluctuation."

A French renewable energy developer, Innovent developed the plant, which is the latest of its kind in the country. 

Its chairman is Gregoire Verhaeghe.

"So, what is next? It is up to you, honourable minister. It is up to you to do the next scaling. So, 5 megawatts for five years, 50 megawatts today, and 500 megawatts before the end of Vision 2030."

The Deputy Minister of International Relations of Trade, Jenelly Matundu, and the ||Kharas Governor, Dawid Gertze, witnessed the plant's inauguration. 

"This is exactly what Namibia needs as we are dreaming of industrialisation. As one of the goals in the NDP6, this is an achievement."

"There is an expectation for our people to see the pricing of energy coming down with this new invention and this new development. Take it from me, my people want to hear better as we are moving along." 

The plant is located in the Tsau ||Khaeb National Park near Luderitz.