A Solar Centre for Windhoek

Namibia is particularly vulnerable to the effects of global climate change and has long been strongly committed to protecting its natural environment. It was the first country in Africa to enshrine environmental protection in its constitution and has set itself an ambitious vision for the transition to a low-carbon future. By 2030, Namibia aims to meet almost all of its energy needs from renewable sources.

At the same time, the country’s energy system remains heavily dependent on electricity imports from neighbouring countries such as South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe. This dependence undermines energy security and contributes to high electricity costs, which are felt directly by households, small businesses and public institutions in Windhoek.

Solar energy offers a locally available, sustainable solution to these challenges. With around 300 days of sunshine and more than 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, Windhoek enjoys exceptionally favourable conditions for solar power generation. Interest in solar solutions is growing across the city, but many residents and businesses face obstacles such as limited access to independent information, technical advice and financing options.

This is where the project A Solar Centre for Windhoek comes in. As part of the project, the city’s first public information and advice centre on solar energy is being established. The centre offers practical, independent advice on solar technologies, costs, safety standards and financing options, and also runs training courses and community engagement activities. By strengthening local knowledge and municipal capacities, the Solar Centre supports informed decision-making and enables the sustainable expansion of small-scale solar installations in Windhoek. In doing so, it contributes to a resilient urban energy future that is driven locally and aligned with global climate targets.