Summary of the Environmental & Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) and Environmental & Social Management Plan (ESMP)
1. Project Background
The Diaz Wind Power Project, located near Lüderitz in the Karas Region of Namibia, is a strategic renewable energy initiative developed by InnoVent. The project involves the construction and operation of a large-scale wind farm that aims to diversify Namibia’s energy mix, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and contribute to national development goals.
In accordance with the Namibian Environmental Management Act (No. 7 of 2007) and its regulations, an Environmental & Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) was undertaken to evaluate the potential environmental and social impacts of the project. An Environmental Clearance Certificate was granted by the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism following a thorough review process. To ensure compliance, a detailed Environmental & Social Management Plan (ESMP) was prepared and is currently being implemented.
Additionally, an Environmental and Social Due Diligence (ESDD) gap analysis was conducted to address local industry standard practice shortcomings in accordance with IFC and World Bank guidelines.
2. Key Environmental Impacts Identified
2.1 Biodiversity (Fauna & Flora)
The ESIA identified the presence of various bird species (including migratory and raptors) and small mammals in the project area. Wind farms pose a risk of bird and bat mortality due to collisions with turbine blades. The clearing of natural vegetation for roads, turbine foundations, and powerlines also leads to habitat loss and fragmentation.
2.2 Noise and Air Pollution
During the construction phase, the use of heavy machinery and transport vehicles increases ambient noise levels, potentially disturbing local wildlife, no human settlements surround the project site, however, additional traffic and transportation via the Port of Lüderitz will be experienced. Dust emissions may also affect air quality on site for construction workers, especially considering the arid and windy environment of the Lüderitz area.
2.3 Visual Landscape Impact
Wind turbines, which can reach heights of up to 150 meters, represent a significant alteration to the visual landscape. The visual impact is especially relevant for tourism-sensitive areas and scenic coastal views.
Although not easily visible from public spaces, the airport and other operators working in within the area, such as the mining license holders, may be affected.
2.4 Soil Erosion and Water Resource Risks
Ground disturbance during excavation, road construction, and turbine installation increases the risk of erosion and sedimentation. If not managed properly, this may impact surface and groundwater quality, especially during rainfall events.
Additionally, due to the site being a remote area of the Tsau/Khaeb National Park, no direct water sources are available and it was decided to utilise the nearest supply point, managed by Lüderitz Town Council, for construction activities.
2.5 Socioeconomic and Community Impacts
The project has both positive and potentially negative effects on nearby communities. While it generates local employment and stimulates the regional economy, temporary inconveniences include increased traffic, noise, and restricted land access during construction.
3. Mitigation Measures (ESMP Implementation)
The ESMP outlines practical actions to avoid, minimize, or offset each identified impact. The following measures have been implemented:
3.1 Biodiversity Protection
- Turbine Micro-siting was optimized using avifaunal data from specialist studies to avoid sensitive flight paths.
- Construction is scheduled to avoid key breeding mammals identified.
- Avoidance of protected flora, and rehabilitation of disturbed areas using indigenous vegetation is ongoing.
- Continuous biodiversity monitoring ensures adaptive management in case of unexpected ecological changes.
3.2 Dust, Noise, and Air Quality Control
- Water trucks are used to suppress dust on unpaved roads (where necessary).
- If possible, dust masks are used to avoid unnecessary water consumption.
- Noise-intensive work is typically limited to daytime hours and carried out away from residential areas.
3.3 Visual Impact Minimization
- A visual impact assessment (VIA) was undertaken, and natural land contours were preserved as far as possible.
- Turbine colour schemes were selected to blend with the environment, however, strict adherence to national aviation regulations is implemented.
- Infrastructure is clustered to reduce landscape fragmentation.
3.4 Soil and Water Management
- Erosion control methods include stone packing, gabions, and controlled runoff drainage if identified during rainfall events, however, as the wind energy facility is in a desert with very low rainfall this has not been required.
- Refuelling and maintenance are done in designated areas to prevent water and soil pollution.
- Wastewater and greywater are managed through sealed storage or municipal disposal.
3.5 Waste and Hazardous Material Handling
- A waste management plan is enforced for sorting, recycling, and safe disposal.
- Hazardous waste is stored in bunded containers and removed by licensed contractors.
3.6 Community Engagement and Social Benefits
- InnoVent has prioritized local hiring and procurement to maximize regional benefits.
- A grievance mechanism and regular consultation sessions ensure transparency and trust.
- Health and safety awareness campaigns were conducted.
- I&APs are updated on the progress and status of the project, giving them an opportunity to raise any issues.
4. Ongoing Monitoring and Compliance
Independent third-party monitoring and evaluation is conducted on a quarterly basis via a locally registered environmental and social practitioner. An ESMP Compliance Report is submitted quarterly to the Sponsor and contractors, monthly progress meetings are held to follow-up during construction. Bi-annually a consolidated report is issued to the authorities. It includes:
- A log of mitigation actions completed;
- Deviations or incidents and corrective actions taken;
- Results of biodiversity, dust, and noise monitoring;
- Community engagement summaries.
InnoVent is committed to adaptive management and will revise procedures as necessary based on monitoring outcomes and stakeholder feedback.
5. Conclusion
The Diaz Wind Power Project is a model of environmentally responsible energy development in Namibia. Through careful planning, active mitigation, and community inclusion, the project aims to deliver clean energy while preserving the natural and social fabric of its surroundings.
Please contact the Site Environmental Officer for any questions in relation to the above.
Environmental Compliance Consultancy (Pty) Ltd
P.O BOX 91193, Klein Windhoek, Namibia
info@eccenvironmental.com
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