UNAM Repository :: Browsing by Author "Davidson, Innocent"

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Benguela community/ UNAM wind power demonstration project—Experiences in implementation
(David, 2014) Davidson, Innocent
Abstract: The government of Namibia has committed itself to promote the use of economically viable RE (renewable energy) technologies, as a complement to grid electrification, and to improve energy provision to rural areas. This paper presents the implementation of the Benguela Community-UNAM Wind-Power Demonstration Project, which is a community-run wind-power mini-generation pilot plant in Luderitz, Namibia. Luderitz is located in South-Western Namibia along the Namib Desert. The region experiences abundant south-westerly winds and the coastal weather conditions make it a suitable location for wind energy. This project is an initiative from the community of Luderitz and a first of its kind in Namibia. It demonstrates the application of small-scale wind energy systems in Namibia and contributes to the growing national awareness of RE and use of wind power in the country. Through its activities, the project has created a dialogue between the local authorities, business community, schools and the greater community. The balance of the paper discusses lessons learned; envisaged future development plans; highlights technical, administrative and management activities; as well as potential for replication and barriers encountered during the project implementation including institutional constraints. The solution-methods developed are presented and discussed.