Impact assessment of Norad-funded rural electrification interventions in Northern Namibia, 1990-2000

The Project

The rural electrification programme of Namibia started shortly after independence. It targeted the more densely populated rural areas of northern Namibia but reached rural communities in all regions within the first 10 years (1990-2000). A strong government commitment and support with donor (mainly Norad) grant funding enabled rapid roll-out of the programme. Norad contributed 142 million NOK between 1991 and 1998. The strategy was to connect all potential customers in a target locality.

Interesting Findings

• The long term impacts have been substantial. Cost-benefits analysis shows the benefits to be twice as high as the investment- and running-costs.
• Electrified rural household enjoy a high quality energy service, with good lighting as the most important benefits.
• Most households perceive the electricity service to be worth the cost, confirmed by a relatively high household consumption and low non-payment rate.
• The rural health sector and secondary schools are benefiting greatly. Access to electricity largely improves telecommunication and water supply and purification.
• Access to electricity in isolation has been insufficient to promote business development, which depends on other factors as access to finance, credits, markets and training.
• Impacts on the environment have been low. Many households still use firewood and charcoal for cooking. Electrification has not reduced deforestation and emissions of clima gas.
• The success of the rural electrification programme is partly based on introduction of pre-payment metering, a high capital subsidy that enabled a rapid roll-out and a dedicated electricity service.
• Government commitment is a key factor and the private sector can play a significant role.

Se nyhetssak