Namibia to install 1 million power-saving bulbs countrywide

Namibia launched a project, which will see a countrywide free installation of nearly 1 million LED bulbs to reduce the power demand during peak hours.

The project, called Short-term Critical Supply Program (STCS), was launched on Wednesday by Namibian power utility firm, NamPower in Windhoek.

The project's total investment is 135 million Namibia dollars (9 million U.S. dollars) and will commence on Sept.5 until May 2017.

NamPower Managing Director Kahenge Haulofu said at the launch that Namibia is facing a critical shortage of electricity, as the ever rising demand for power exceeds supply.

"In an effort to address this problem, NamPower initiated the STCS under which a number of short to medium initiatives are being implemented to address immediate power supply until a base load power station is commissioned," he said.

The campaign aims to reduce electricity usage in residential areas during peak times by replacing some one million incandescent bulbs in residences with LED bulbs.

According to Haulofu, compared to incandescent bulbs (60W), LED bulbs (9W) last longer and consume far less electricity, while giving out the same or more intensity.

"The bulbs are environmentally friendly as they contain non-toxic substances and are cost effective," he added.

Project leader, Eino Nanjemba said through the campaign, NamPower can expect a reduction of 30MW power usage.

"The LED bulbs that will be installed will have a warranty period of three years," he said.

Currently, Namibia imports about 60 percent of electricity, mostly during peak times.

Source : XINHUA