As part of its ongoing renewable energy expansion, Cape Verde has inaugurated its largest photovoltaic solar plant—a 5 MW array on Sal Island. The project, built by Aguas de Ponta Preta, is one of several aimed at reducing the country’s dependence on fossil fuels and stabilizing energy costs.
Largest Photovoltaic Solar Plant
Cape Verde has taken a significant step in its renewable energy transition with the inauguration of its largest photovoltaic solar plant to date. Located in Santa Maria on Sal Island, the new 5 MW solar array is part of the country’s ambitious effort to increase its renewable energy capacity.
Largest solar plant (Image: Collected)
The Ministry of Energy and Commerce confirmed the project is the largest in the nation’s history, marking a milestone in Cape Verde’s journey toward a sustainable future.
Constructed by the Cape Verdean company Aguas de Ponta Preta, the plant is part of a broader national strategy to promote renewables. The Ministry of Energy also announced that this facility is just one of several projects in the pipeline, with plans to install eight more solar arrays to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and stabilize energy prices.
Photovoltaic Power to Reduce Energy Costs
The Ministry of Energy emphasized that the shift to photovoltaic solar energy will bring multiple benefits to Cape Verde. This transition will decrease the country’s dependence on imported fossil fuels, a significant factor in the current cost of electricity.
“When we surpass 50% renewable energy penetration, we will begin to see the full effects of reduced external impact on energy prices,” the ministry stated. This shift will ultimately lower electricity costs for households and businesses, making energy more affordable and stable nationwide.
Cape Verde’s focus on photovoltaic technology is a clear sign of its commitment to renewable energy. The new solar plant on Sal Island is a major step forward in the country’s efforts to lower its carbon emissions and achieve energy independence.
The project also highlights the importance of international cooperation, as Aguas de Ponta Preta is operated by a Spanish company that has brought valuable expertise to the plant’s development.
Cape Verde’s Renewable Energy Targets
Cape Verde has set ambitious renewable energy targets, aiming for 30% renewables in its electricity mix by 2026 and over 50% by 2030.
This new photovoltaic plant plays a vital role in helping the nation meet these goals. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Cape Verde had 26 MW of installed solar capacity by the end of 2023, up from 23 MW in 2022.
The growing investment in photovoltaic energy is a critical part of Cape Verde’s long-term strategy. By continuing to build its portfolio of clean energy projects, the country is moving closer to its goals of reducing its carbon footprint and achieving energy independence.
Affordable Photovoltaic Energy for Cape Verde
During the inauguration ceremony, Aguas de Ponta Preta Chairman Norberto Lariba announced that the energy produced by the plant will be sold at a competitive rate. For the first 15 years, the price will be less than 5 Cape Verdean escudos (€0.045) per kilowatt-hour, making it one of the most affordable energy sources in the country.
This pricing structure is part of a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) between Cape Verde’s Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Energy (DNICE) and Aguas de Ponta Preta. The PPA ensures the electricity will be distributed efficiently and at a competitive price for the next 25 years.
The new photovoltaic plant on Sal Island is a pivotal development for Cape Verde. As the country continues to invest in renewables, it is positioning itself as a leader in the global shift toward clean energy and is on track to achieve its energy independence goals well before its 2030 target.