Major renewable investment to strengthen mining and engineering infrastructure in Southern Africa
TerraWatt Africa Holdings (Pty) Ltd (TerraWatt), a Dutch-Namibian renewable energy developer, has officially commenced construction on the 50 MW “Astra Farm” solar photovoltaic (PV) facility in Namibia’s Omaheke Region. The landmark project is set to deliver sustainable energy to support Namibia’s industrial growth and energy-hungry sectors such as mining and engineering.
Project Overview: The Astra Farm 50 MW Solar PV Plant
Location and Capacity
The Astra Farm solar project is located at Farm Buchow 108 in the Omaheke Region. Phase 1 includes a 50 MW PV solar generation capacity, with future expansion potential already under consideration.
Developer and Off-Taker
TerraWatt is working in partnership with local stakeholders, including industrial energy off-takers, to ensure a reliable supply of clean power to support regional development. The project ranks among Namibia’s largest privately-driven renewable initiatives.
Key Benefits
- Provides reliable, renewable electricity for Namibia’s grid.
- Stimulates economic growth and job creation in Omaheke.
- Reduces carbon emissions in line with Namibia’s climate commitments.
- Strengthens the foundation for industrial and mining operations dependent on stable energy supply.
Strategic Importance
Renewable Energy as a Competitive Advantage
In mining and engineering, energy remains one of the most significant operational costs. The adoption of renewable solutions such as solar power allows companies to stabilize costs, ensure reliable supply in remote areas, and align with global sustainability goals.
Namibia’s Renewable Edge
Namibia offers ideal conditions for solar power generation, with over 3 000 hours of sunshine per year and some of the world’s highest solar radiation levels. The Astra Farm project takes advantage of this natural resource, positioning Namibia as a regional hub for renewable energy development.
Strengthening the Value Chain
By boosting power reliability and capacity, the Astra Farm project contributes to:
- More stable and cost-effective energy for mining operations.
- Increased opportunities for local engineering and EPC contractors.
- Enhanced regional energy security, supporting expansion into remote industrial areas.
Government and Industry Endorsement
During the groundbreaking ceremony, Namibia’s Deputy Minister of Industries, Mines, and Energy, Gaudentia Kröhne, described the project as “a symbol of transition, of hope, and of Namibia’s ambition to become a leader in renewable energy on the African continent.”
She highlighted that energy is “the most critical input for development,” urging private investors to continue supporting renewable initiatives while government ensures a conducive policy framework.
Environmental and Regulatory Compliance
The Astra Farm project has successfully completed Namibia’s Environmental Impact Assessment process and received an Environmental Clearance Certificate. The approval demonstrates compliance with national sustainability and environmental standards, ensuring minimal ecological disruption while delivering long-term benefits to the local community.
Opportunities
For Mining Companies and Investors
- Secure access to renewable energy for power-intensive mining and processing operations.
- Explore partnerships or off-take agreements with renewable developers.
- Reduce carbon footprints while improving operational resilience.
For Engineering and EPC Firms
- Participate in solar construction, installation, and maintenance contracts.
- Build technical capacity in renewable infrastructure relevant to industrial and mining projects.
For Policy Makers and Industry Stakeholders
- Strengthen policy frameworks that encourage renewable adoption in mining regions.
- Use Astra Farm as a case study for balancing industrial growth with environmental sustainability.
