Namibia is inviting bids for for six solar power plants as part of efforts to expand its renewable energy capacity and reduce reliance on imports.
The state-owned utility NamPower confirmed on Monday, 24 November 2025 that it is seeking bids for the construction of six grid-connected facilities, each designed to generate 20MW, totalling 120MW.
The projects will be developed under an independent power producer (IPP) model, allowing private companies to finance, build and operate the plants before selling electricity back to NamPower through long-term purchase agreements.
Both local and international firms are eligible to apply.
Interested bidders must pay a registration fee of around $349 to access bid documents.
Payments must be made by 13 January 2026, and all submissions must be completed by 30 January 2026.
Expanding renewable energy goals
The tender comes as Namibia accelerates its renewable energy drive.
In mid-2025, NamPower began building a 100MW solar plant in southern Namibia, currently the largest under development in the country.
The government has also cleared the way for major green hydrogen investments, granting environmental approval for a landmark 3GW solar project intended to power hydrogen and ammonia production.
Namibia’s solar potential is among the strongest in Africa, with high irradiation levels across much of the country.
According to the International Renewable Energy Agency, Namibia had installed 163MW of solar capacity by the end of 2024.
The new tender is expected to significantly boost this figure.
Namibia is also among the leading countries in sub-Saharan Africa when it comes to green hydrogen development.
The desert country hosts a number of high profile hydrogen projects that could potentially make it a destination for the world’s cheapest green hydrogen production by the end of this decade.
Regional context and why it matters
Namibia imports nearly 60% of its electricity from neighbouring South Africa and Zambia.
Expanding domestic generation is seen as critical to strengthening energy security and reducing exposure to regional supply shortages.
The push towards renewables also aligns with wider African energy transition goals.
Countries such as South Africa, Kenya and Morocco are scaling up solar and wind projects to meet rising demand while cutting carbon emissions.
The new solar plants will reduce Namibia’s dependence on imports and support its long-term ambition to achieve a cleaner, more resilient energy mix.
Also, the IPP model opens opportunities for international investors in Namibia’s energy sector.