OneWorld

Project: Tsumkwe Energy Business Plan Development

Client: Desert Research Foundation of Namibia (DRFN)

Location: Tsumkwe, Otjozondjupa Region, Namibia

Timeframe: May-September 2010

Description: Led by James Cumming, OneWorld and team of consortium members in developming the business plan, operational model and management structure for the Tsumkwe Energy Project. The project is being funded by the European Commission ACP EU Energy Facility and NamPower and being implemented by the Desert Research Foundation of Namibia. The Tsumkwe Energy Project will establish a 100 to 150 kWp solar PV array with 1000 to 1500 kWh battery storage capacity in order to minimise the operation of the current
diesel electricity generators and ensure uninterrupted and stable power supply. Furthermore the project will repair, upgrade and expand the current 11 kV mini-grid and initiate mechanisms for access to alternative thermal fuels (such as LPG) and energy efficient  appliances. The direct beneficiaries are over 70 households, 20 different institutions and over 15 businesses. Tsumkwe Energy will not only implement technical improvements, but also investigate what additional economic opportunities can be pursued under improved  energy supply conditions. This is a vital strategy to ensure that Tsumkwe can reach a level of economic prosperity that will support the financial sustainability of the hybrid system. For this reason a sustained social behaviour change component will be implemented.