Sustainable Power Solutions (SPS), in partnership with B2Gold Namibia, the Oelofse family and Fortitude, has commissioned Namibia’s first solar wheeling project under NamPower’s Modified Single Buyer (MSB) programme.
The 10 MW Maxwell Solar Plant, located 50 kilometres north of Otjiwarongo, supplies power through the national grid to B2Gold’s Otjikoto Mine, situated 20 kilometres away.
SPS Co-founder and Director, Francois van Themaat, said the project marks a breakthrough for renewable energy in the country.
“It proves that wheeling under the MSB Programme works and shows how private producers and corporate off-takers can collaborate with NamPower to accelerate renewable energy deployment,” he said.
NamPower’s MSB programme allows Independent Power Producers to sell electricity directly to large customers through the grid. The model is designed to strengthen energy security, support independent generation, and advance the country’s transition to clean power.
B2Gold Namibia Country Manager, John Roos, said the Otjikoto Mine had reduced its reliance on heavy fuel oil since 2015, with a 7 MW solar plant built in 2018 supplying 13% of its power needs.
He added that the new Maxwell Solar Plant would increase the mine’s renewable share.
“B2Gold’s ambition is to be Namibia’s leader in renewable-powered mining, while supporting our global target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030. Partnering with SPS under the MSB framework gives us a cost-effective, low-carbon energy supply and demonstrates what is possible for the mining sector,” he said.
The Oelofse family, who own Maxwell Farm and co-invested in the project, provided land and a conservation-driven vision.
“For us, the Maxwell Solar Plant is more than energy. It aligns perfectly with our conservation efforts and our mission to keep Namibia green and sustainable for generations to come. This is proof that clean energy and environmental stewardship can thrive together,” said Alex Oelofse.
The project was initiated before the MSB framework had been finalised, requiring close collaboration with NamPower and the Electricity Control Board to establish a viable model.
SPS took on added risk by agreeing to a shorter eight-year Power Purchase Agreement, aligned with the Otjikoto Mine’s approved life of mine.
“It was ambitious, but we believe in Namibia’s renewable future. Our teams across engineering, finance, legal, and asset management, supported by our shareholders, pulled together over four years to make this dream a reality,” Van Themaat said.
Roos praised SPS’s commitment, noting that the shorter agreement showed “both courage and dedication to Namibia and sustainable energy”.
Looking ahead, Van Themaat said SPS intends to expand Maxwell Solar, add battery storage, and use the project as a blueprint for other renewable developments.
“Maxwell Solar is a milestone not only for SPS, but for Namibia and Africa. It proves that bold ideas, strong partnerships, and trust can deliver real change. We believe this project will inspire many more across the continent,” he said.
