The Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia (EIF) and Northern Regional Electricity Distributor (NORED), in collaboration with the Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME), have announced the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) under the Towards an Inclusive Design of the Renewable Energy Transition (TIDRET) project. This significant event marks a critical step forward in Namibia’s renewable energy journey, particularly in addressing energy access for vulnerable communities and peri-urban areas.
The TIDRET project is funded by the European Union Global Climate Change Alliance Plus (EU GCCA+) initiative and the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) through the MEFT’s ‘Climate Change and Inclusive Use of Natural Resources Project (CCIU-EU)’ implemented by GIZ. It is designed to ensure that the transition to renewable energy is inclusive, equitable, and beneficial to all Namibians, especially those in underserved regions. As part of this initiative, the TIDRET project aims to expand access to affordable solar and renewable energy technologies across three targeted regions—Otjozondjupa, Kunene, and Erongo. The solar electrification drive will provide grant-funded solar installations, alongside maintenance, mentoring, capacity building, and technical training to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) legally recognized under Namibian law.
Speaking at the ceremony, Benedict Libanda, CEO of the Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia stated,“This partnership reflects our unwavering commitment to ensuring that all Namibians have access to clean, affordable, and reliable energy. By working closely with NORED and other key stakeholders, we are not only electrifying communities but also empowering local businesses and building the technical capacity needed for a sustainable future.”
The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for this project encompasses the development of a 300 kW solar mini-grid, which will include a distribution network to provide energy to 164 households and approximately 500 individuals. With a total estimated investment of NAD 12 million secured from the Ministry of Mines and Energy and the European Union, the project will further support local businesses such as campsites, lodges and shops to foster economic development. Construction is scheduled to begin in October 2024 and is expected to be completed within six months. Upon completion, NORED will take ownership of the solar plant and implement a social tariff to generate revenue for ongoing maintenance beyond the TIDRET funding.
The Acting Chief Executive Officer, Toivo Shovaleka of NORED, said “We are excited to announce that upon the successful completion of this project, we are expecting a new lease of life for the local community of Puros as about 164 new connections are estimated to be done.”
The TIDRET project will empower vulnerable communities by reducing their energy costs and reliance on non-renewable sources, while also contributing to Namibia’s broader climate goals. The initiative will also help MSMEs in these regions to thrive by providing them with the energy resources needed to sustain and grow their businesses. The project is not only reducing energy costs and reliance on non-renewable sources but also contributing to the nation’s broader climate objectives.
The MoU was signed on 28 August 2024 by Mr. Benedict Libanda, Chief Executive Officer of the EIF and Toivo Shovaleka, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the NORED.