NamPower, Namibia's leading power utility, recently celebrated its 30th anniversary and launched a new five-year Integrated Strategic Business Plan (ISBP) for 2026-2030. The event was attended by high-profile guests, including Deputy Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy, Hon Gaudentia Kröhne, and various stakeholders. NamPower's Managing Director, Mr Kahenge S. Haulofu, addressed the gathering, highlighting the company's achievements over the past three decades. The launch of the new strategy coincides with NamPower's 30-year milestone, marking reliability, stability, resilience, and growth.
NamPower was established on July 1, 1996, from the former South-West Africa Water and Electricity Corporation, SWAWEK. The company took over a well-established system, built on a solid foundation by its predecessors. Over the past 30 years, NamPower has experienced significant growth, transforming from a conventional utility to a modern adaptive energy company. The company has expanded its infrastructure, developing a robust network of transmission and distribution lines and substations. This growth has enabled NamPower to power progress and provide electricity to rural and urban areas.
NamPower's generation capacity has increased significantly over the years, from 394.6MW in 1996 to 563.5MW in 2026. The company has decommissioned and commissioned various power stations, including the ANIXAS I Power Station at Walvis Bay, with an installed capacity of 22.5MW. The Van Eck Power Station, however, operates at a reduced capacity due to ageing equipment. These developments have contributed to NamPower's growth and ability to meet Namibia's growing energy demands.
The company's achievements extend beyond generation, with significant developments in transmission and distribution. NamPower has expanded its grid, spanning thousands of kilometres of transmission and distribution lines and over 200 substations. The company has also transitioned from manual systems to smart grids and digital monitoring, enhancing efficiency and reliability. Integration of renewable energy sources, including solar, wind, and hydro power, has also become a key aspect of NamPower's operations.
NamPower's growth and transformation have been marked by landmark projects that have improved access to electricity in rural and urban areas. The company's efforts have contributed to Namibia's economic growth and development. As a major player in the regional power market, NamPower participates confidently, providing a reliable and stable energy supply. The company's 30-year journey has been marked by resilience and adaptability, enabling it to navigate challenging operating environments.
The new five-year ISBP aims to build on NamPower's successes, outlining a strategic roadmap for future growth and development. The plan is expected to guide the company's operations, ensuring continued reliability, stability, and growth. As NamPower moves forward, it will focus on addressing emerging challenges and opportunities in the energy sector. The company's commitment to sustainability and renewable energy will remain a key priority.
As NamPower looks to the future, it acknowledges the support of its stakeholders, including the government, customers, and investors. The company's 30-year milestone is a testament to its dedication to providing a reliable and stable energy supply. With its new strategic plan in place, NamPower is poised to continue its growth trajectory, contributing to Namibia's economic development and regional energy stability.
Key points
- NamPower has expanded its generation capacity from 394.6MW in 1996 to 563.5MW in 2026.
- The company has developed a robust network spanning thousands of kilometres of transmission and distribution lines and over 200 substations.
- NamPower has integrated renewable energy sources, including solar, wind, and hydro power, into its supply mix.
