Keetmans electricity budget jumps to N$148 million, with upgrades, salaries and tariffs in the mix

The Keetmanshoop Electricity Business Unit (Kebu) has proposed a N$148.2-million budget for 2025/26, with planned network upgrades and a possible tariff increase.

This represents a 17.09% increase from the 2024/25 financial year, Kebu acting strategic executive, Lee Mwemba, has said.

Mwemba was speaking during a consultative meeting with Electricity Control Board (ECB) officials, Kebu officials, councillors and community members to seek input on the proposed increment on Monday.

During the 2024/25 financial year, the revenue of Kebu, a division within the Keetmanshoop Municipality, stood at N$122 million, while its budget stood at N$122 882 544.

Mwemba said from the N$ 148 205 922 budget, about N$87 million, which translates to 58.86%, would go to NamPower, the Electricity Control Board (ECB), and the National Electrification Fund.

Another N$15 million, translating to 10.55%, would go towards salaries, while N$27 million (representing 18.4%), is allocated for the upgrade and automation of the electricity network.

An additional N$6 million, which is 4.15% of the budget, is allocated to the municipality as a local authority surcharge, and a further N$1 million is earmarked for the installation of streetlights.

Mwemba said the municipality has a provisional proposal of a 6 per cent tariff increment for the 2025/2026 financial year that will be submitted to the ECB.

“This is preliminary and not final. From the information we have so far, Kebu is likely to apply for a 6% average increment on electricity; however, that might change when all calculations are done,” he said.

Also speaking at the meeting was Keetmanshoop mayor Annalise Knaus, who said the municipality recognises the importance of electricity as a key driver of development and economic stability.

She said through careful tariff structuring, the municipality strives to strike a balance in ensuring affordability for residents while maintaining the sustainability of electricity supply.

“I extend my gratitude to the ECB for its decision in approving a moderate tariff increase of only 3.8% in contrast with the significantly higher increment of 17.4% initially applied for by NamPower.

“This thoughtful approach reflects your commitment to protecting the socio-economic well-being of communities like ours, and for that, we are thankful,” she said.

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