The Sorexa solar plant, located near Arandis, in the Erongo region of Namibia, marks a significant milestone for the country’s renewable energy landscape.
With a first phase of 9.8 megawatt peak (MWp), this innovative project is set to deliver clean electricityto:
- power Orano’s desalination plant, providing an affordable and sustainable solution to meet the growing water needs of the Erongo region,
- power any Namibian electricity consumer wishing to decrease its electricity bill, and
- export through the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP).
It is the first phase of a much larger 50 megawatt (MW) solar project, dedicated to supply power to several of Namibia’s large power consumers as well as further boosting Namibia’s export dedicated generation.
Pioneering a New Energy Market Model
The Sorexa project stands out for its alignment with the Modified Single Buyer (MSB) market model, introduced in Namibia in 2019 and fast gaining momentum. This model allows independent power producers (IPPs) to sell electricity directly to end-users while also enabling the potential for exports.
By leveraging this progressive framework, Sorexa is helping to reshape the national energy market, demonstrating the viability of private sector involvement in Namibia’s energy transition.
The project reflects InnoSun’s long-standing confidence in Namibia as a hub for renewable energy investment. It also highlights the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in emerging markets, setting a strong precedent for future developments under the MSB model.
Construction Progress and Milestones
Construction at the Sorexa site is almost complete, with the solar park being 100% built and the grid connection infrastructure being finalised, to ensure the seamless integration of the plant into Namibia’s power network.
Commissioning is scheduled for April 2025, pending the completion of final technical adjustments and grid connection. Once operational, the plant will join InnoSun’s portfolio as its fifth solar park in Namibia, contributing to the diversification and decarbonisation of the country’s energy mix.
Partnering for Development
The Sorexa project is made possible through a partnership with the Development Bank of Namibia (DBN), which funded the project with N$66 million. This collaboration underscores the critical role of financial institutions in enabling renewable energy development and fostering economic growth.
The remainder of the investment, N$70 million, was financed by InnoSun with the support of its French mother company InnoVent.
A Step Towards Sustainability
InnoSun’s investment in the Sorexa project exemplifies the company’s broader mission to support sustainable development in Namibia. By powering industrial facilities such as Orano’s desalination plant with renewable energy, Sorexa will contribute to reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions in the region. This project serves as a testament to Namibia’s potential as a leader in renewable energy innovation and as a reliable partner for sustainable business ventures.
