First Shipment Arrives for Namibia’s Landmark 51MW Omburu Battery Energy Storage Project

First Shipment Arrives for Namibia’s Landmark 51MW Omburu Battery Energy Storage Project. Namibia has reached a major milestone in its renewable energy journey with the arrival of the first shipment for the Omburu Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Project, the country’s first utility-scale battery energy storage initiative.

The project, designed at 51MW/51MWh, represents a significant step toward strengthening Namibia’s national grid and integrating more renewable energy into its electricity mix. Located near Omaruru at the Omburu Substation, the system uses advanced Lithium-Ion (LFP) battery technology combined with power conversion, controls, cooling, and protection systems.

The first shipment, which arrived at the Port of Walvis Bay on 13 October 2025, includes eight Power Conversion System (PCS) containers. When completed, the project will consist of nine PCS containers, each connected to four battery containers, totaling 36 battery containers capable of delivering 51MW/51MWh of stored energy.

The PCS units play a critical role in converting Alternating Current (AC) electricity from the grid into Direct Current (DC) to charge the batteries, and vice versa — ensuring efficient energy storage and release to meet grid demands.

Once operational, the Omburu BESS will allow NamPower to manage energy supply and demand more effectively. The system will perform energy arbitrage, displace costly emergency power, and provide essential grid stability services. It will also enhance the grid’s ability to integrate additional intermittent renewable sources such as solar and wind energy, ensuring a more secure and reliable power supply.