The successful commission-ing of the Sekelduin 132/66/33 kV substation near Swakopmund, marked a significant milestone in the continent’s energy infrastructure development, says power trans-mission and distribution solutions provider ACTOM.
The project, officially opened by Namibia’s power utility NamPower, is a digital substation, showcasing the country’s commitment to embracing “cutting-edge technology” to enhance grid reliability and support future energy demand, says ACTOM High Voltage Equipment divisional CEO Casbah Zwane.
“The facility strengthens grid reliability, unlocks future load growth in the Erongo region, and sets a new benchmark for digital energy infrastructure on the continent. ACTOM served as the main supplier, [engineering, procurement and construction] contractor, and systems integrator, showcasing African engineering expertise and digital innovation at its finest.”
Continental First
Built at a cost of N$394 million, Sekelduin is a digital substation “designed and delivered by African teams for African energy needs”. The facility uses process bus and station bus applications aligned with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standard for substation automation, IEC 61850; fibre-optic communication; and hybrid air-insulated switchgear-gas-insulated switchgear (AIS/GIS), which enables real-time monitoring, remote control and predictive maintenance.
“Operators can now monitor live data and control switching remotely, reducing physical intervention and enhancing safety,” adds Zwane.
The digital infrastructure is also AI- and machine learning- ready, allowing NamPower to integrate digital transformation initiatives and maintain operational excellence.
Sekelduin project manager Phuluso Mnisi says maintenance is now preventative rather than reactive, saving time, reducing costs and improving reliability.
The project also represents the adoption of new international engineering standards, bringing advanced European practices to Africa and successfully applying them in a challenging coastal and desert environment.
Driving Innovation
The new substation provides a critical feed to Namibia’s coastal network. Its compact indoor AIS/GIS and metal-enclosed GIS designs optimise space while protecting equipment from harsh environmental conditions.
Further, the substation is built to adapt to future needs, keeping Namibia at the “forefront of digital energy innovation,” Zwane says.
ACTOM avers that Sekelduin sets a benchmark for cyber- secure, scalable, AI-ready digital substations across Africa. The project provides “valuable lessons” for future developments, including the benefits of adopting international engineering standards, integrating multi-division expertise, leveraging digital systems for predictive maintenance, and designing for extreme environmental conditions.
With Sekelduin now operational, Namibia is strengthening its grid, futureproofing the Erongo region, and demonstrating how African expertise and technology can drive continental innovation.
ACTOM Group is a platinum sponsor of the Enlit Africa 2026 event, which takes place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre from May 19 to 21.