Cape Verde has inaugurated its largest photovoltaic solar plant, a 5 MW array on Sal Island, marking a key step in its renewable energy expansion. The project—built by Aguas de Ponta Preta—is one of several aimed at reducing fossil fuel dependence and stabilizing energy costs.
Largest Photovoltaic Solar Plant
The new 5 MW solar array in Santa Maria, Sal Island, marks a significant step in the country’s ambitious push to expand its renewable energy capacity. Confirmed by the Ministry of Energy and Commerce as the largest in the nation’s history, the project is a milestone in Cape Verde’s journey toward a sustainable future.
Largest solar plant (Image: Collected)
Constructed by the Cape Verdean company Aguas de Ponta Preta, the plant is part of a broader national strategy to promote renewable energy. It is one of several projects in the pipeline, with Cape Verde planning to install eight more solar arrays to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and stabilize energy prices.
Photovoltaic Power to Reduce Energy Costs
According to the Ministry of Energy, the shift to photovoltaic solar energy promises multiple benefits for Cape Verde, most notably reducing its dependence on imported fossil fuels—a significant driver of current electricity costs.
“When we surpass 50% renewable energy penetration, we will begin to see the full effects of reduced external impact on energy prices,” the ministry said. This shift will ultimately lower electricity costs for households and businesses, making energy more affordable and stable across the country.
By focusing on photovoltaic energy, Cape Verde is signaling a strong commitment to reducing its carbon emissions and achieving greater energy independence.
The project also highlights the value of international cooperation. Although Aguas de Ponta Preta is a Cape Verdean company, it is operated by a Spanish firm that contributed valuable expertise to the plant’s development.
Cape Verde’s Renewable Energy Targets
Cape Verde has set ambitious renewable energy targets. The country aims to achieve 30% renewable energy in its electricity mix by 2026, with plans to exceed 50% by 2030.
This new plant is vital to achieving these goals. It adds to the 26 MW of installed solar capacity reported by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) for Cape Verde at the end of 2023, which was up from 23 MW in 2022.
This growing investment in solar is a critical part of Cape Verde’s long-term strategy to reduce its carbon footprint and embrace clean energy. With projects like the Sal Island plant, the country is moving closer to its goals of sustainability and energy independence.
Affordable Photovoltaic Energy for Cape Verde
During the inauguration ceremony, Aguas de Ponta Preta Chairman Norberto Lariba announced that the energy produced 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 country’s most affordable energy sources.
This pricing is secured through a 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA) between Aguas de Ponta Preta and Cape Verde’s Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Energy (DNICE). The agreement ensures that the electricity will be distributed efficiently and at a competitive price.
The new photovoltaic plant on Sal Island signals a new era for Cape Verde. As the nation continues to invest in renewables, it positions itself as a leader in the global transition to clean energy. With this sustained commitment, Cape Verde appears on track to achieve its energy independence goals well ahead of the 2030 target.
