Namdeb, the 50-50 diamond mining joint venture between De Beers and the Namibian government, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with national power utility NamPower to collaborate on renewable electricity projects.
The agreement paves the way for integrating wind energy into Namdeb’s mining operations and the broader Namibian grid.
The proposed 34 MW Wind Power Plant will be developed in Kerbehuk, about 45km north of Oranjemund, with Namdeb as the sole off-taker of the generated electricity.
The partnership also explores opportunities to upscale the project and connect it to NamPower’s grid, bolstering Namibia’s renewable energy capacity.
“This MoU signifies more than a partnership; it is a statement of intent to power progress responsibly and sustainably,” said Namdeb chief executive Riaan Burger.
“Our focus on climate is backed by tangible actions.”
Namdeb has already taken steps toward decarbonisation, including introducing Namibia’s first battery-electric bus in 2023 as part of its fleet electrification strategy.
The Kerbehuk Wind Facility is expected to supply nearly half of Namdeb’s electricity needs with renewable energy, while also contributing to Namibia’s energy security.
“Today’s consumers want to know that the diamonds they wear are sustainable. This Memorandum of Understanding with NamPower is a major step towards our ‘Building Forever’ ambition to become carbon neutral,” said De Beers chief executive Al Cook.
“Namibia is already at the forefront of Africa’s energy transition, and I am delighted that the new wind farm would bring clean power not just to our own operations but to communities across the country.”
Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor-In-Chief, Rough & Polished
