Namibia Commissions 54 MW Omburu Battery Project To Strengthen Grid Stability And Cut Power Imports

Namibia has taken an important step toward reducing its dependence on imported electricity with the completion of its first utility-scale battery energy storage system at the Omburu substation near Otjiwarongo. The project has been developed by the national power utility, NamPower, and is seen as a major move to strengthen the country’s power system and improve energy security.

The Omburu battery energy storage system has a capacity of 54 MW and 54 MWh. It works like a large energy storage unit that can store electricity when supply is high and release it when demand increases. The system stores excess power generated from renewable sources such as solar and wind, along with cheaper electricity imported during off-peak hours. This stored energy can then be used during peak demand periods, helping to reduce pressure on the grid and avoid the need for expensive emergency power purchases.

The project was supported by international funding and technical collaboration. The German government, through KfW Development Bank, provided a grant of about 20 million Euros, which covered most of the construction costs. NamPower funded the remaining portion, including infrastructure and integration into the national grid. The construction work was carried out by a joint venture between Chinese companies Shandong Electrical Engineering & Equipment Group and Zhejiang Narada Power Source after a competitive bidding process.

Apart from energy storage, the system also provides important support services to maintain grid stability. It helps in controlling voltage levels and can quickly respond to sudden changes in power supply or demand. This is especially important as Namibia increases its use of renewable energy, which can vary depending on weather conditions. The battery system ensures that the power supply remains stable even when solar or wind generation fluctuates.

The Omburu site was selected due to its location in the Erongo region, close to key demand centers and existing renewable energy infrastructure. The project is expected to serve as a model for future developments, including the planned 90 MWh Lithops battery project.

With this development, Namibia is moving closer to its target of increasing renewable energy share to 70 percent by 2030. The project not only strengthens the country’s electricity system but also supports long-term sustainability and economic growth.