Countries around the world are scrambling to secure energy supply. But many are looking for new and alternative ways to do this. Namibia, in South West Africa has opted to go the renewable energy route by building a gas-fired power station.
The technology is cheaper, more efficient and environmentally friendly than traditional coal-fired power stations.
The country is known for its rough terrain and arid conditions, and imports most of its electricity to cater for its average demand of 550MW. There is still however a shortfall of around 180MW. Independent power producer Xaris believes it has the solution for Namibia – a liquid gas-fulled power station.
The new natural gas powered station will add 250MW of power onto the national grid, which is about 45% of the country’s current consumption. Currently energy is constrained making it hard for businesses especially for smaller players. Some companies spend around 24% of their costs on electricity alone.
The generators will be supplied with imported liquified natural gas which is considered to be completely safe and environmentally friendly. The gas will be pumped from a fuel storage vessel on Namibia’s coast line to the plant.
