Cabo Verde has inaugurated four new solar power plants, boosting the country’s renewable energy capacity by 13 megawatts. This expansion supports Cabo Verde‘s aim to meet 50% of its electricity needs with renewables by 2030.
Cabo Verde solar power goal: 50% of electricity from renewables by 2030
Cabo Verde has taken a significant step towards its renewable energy goals by launching four new solar power plants. These plants, located on three islands in the archipelago, have a combined capacity of 13 megawatts. The inauguration ceremony was led by the Prime Minister, Ulisses Correia e Silva, at the São Jorge solar power plant in Santiago, the largest in Cabo Verde.
The São Jorge plant, with an installed capacity of 8 MW, is expected to produce 10,000 megawatts per year. This output will supply electricity to 15,000 homes on the island of Santiago, which is the most populated island in the country.
The other solar power plants are located in Santiago and Boa Vista, with the first phase of the Boa Vista plant having a capacity of 0.5 megawatts. The Sal solar power plant has a capacity of 2.2 megawatts and is set to be upgraded to 5.5 megawatts by 2025.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of these developments in achieving Cabo Verde’s goal of generating 50% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. He highlighted the role of private sector operators in helping the country meet its energy needs and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.
€14 million investment boosts Cabo Verde solar power capacity
The project, which involved a €14 million investment, is part of Cabo Verde’s broader strategy to increase its renewable energy production. The expansion of solar power capacity is a critical component of this strategy, which also includes the development of wind power and other renewable energy sources.
In addition to solar power, Cabo Verde is focusing on expanding its wind power capacity. The Praia wind farm on Santiago island has been upgraded from 2.4 megawatts to 6 megawatts, and the second phase of the Sal wind farm is nearing completion. These wind farms, along with the new solar power plants, are expected to significantly increase the country’s renewable energy output.
The Cabo Verdean government is also preparing to launch a tender for the construction of a 10-megawatt wind farm on the island of Boa Vista. This project, along with the ongoing expansion of solar and wind power, is part of the country’s efforts to diversify its energy sources and reduce its carbon footprint.
Cabo Verde solar power leads national renewable energy strategy
Cabo Verde’s renewable energy strategy is not limited to solar and wind power. The country is also exploring the potential of wave energy and other innovative technologies to further increase its renewable energy capacity. These efforts are aimed at making Cabo Verde a leader in renewable energy in Africa and beyond.
The country’s commitment to renewable energy is evident in its long-term goals. By 2030, Cabo Verde aims to generate 50% of its electricity from renewable sources, and by 2040, it hopes to achieve 100% renewable energy production. These ambitious targets reflect the government’s determination to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and promote sustainable development.
The launch of the four new solar power plants is a significant milestone in Cabo Verde’s renewable energy journey. With the support of private sector operators and continued investment in renewable energy infrastructure, Cabo Verde is well on its way to achieving its energy goals.
For more details on Cabo Verde’s solar initiatives, check out the Cabo Verde Solar News Archives – PVknowhow.com.
