New energy storage project in Cape Verde

Praia, Sept. 6, 2024 (Lusa) — Cabo Verde's first pumped storage hydroelectric power station will start operating by 2028. Its power output is equivalent to more than a quarter of the largest (fuel-fired) power station on the island of Santiago. [pdf]

Cape Verde is developing BESS energy storage equipment

These BESS will be implemented in the scope of the so-called “Cabo Verde Renewable Energy and Improved Utility Performance Project”. This Project is being developed in line with the country's commitment to increase the production and coverage of electricity from renewable energy resources. [pdf]

FAQS about Cape Verde is developing BESS energy storage equipment

How can Cape Verde save money on fuel imports?

The company will also add a battery energy storage system (BESS) with a capacity of 9 MW/5 MWh in Santiago and another unit of 6 MW/6MWh on the island of Sal. The new facilities will contribute to annual cost savings of around CVE 1 billion in fuel imports, according to Cape Verde’s minister of industry, trade and energy Alexandre Monteiro.

Does Cape Verde have a wind farm?

The Cape Verde government has signed a contract with the domestic partly state-owned wind power operator, Cabeolica, to support its wind farm expansion and battery installation projects in the archipelago nation off the West African coast. Image credits: Alamy Stock Photo.

When will Cape Verde's wind farm expansion start?

Works on the wind farm expansion are due to commence in July 2024. Cape Verde’s renewables account for 20% of the total installed capacity in the country, according to ALER, the renewables association of Portuguese-speaking African countries.

Who owns Electra in Cape Verde?

The company's largest shareholder, with a 50% stake, is AFC Equity Investments, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Africa Finance Corporation. Danish fund manager A.P. Moller Capital has owned a 44% stake since 2021. The government of Cape Verde and national utility Electra hold the remaining 6%. (CVE 100 = USD 0.963/EUR 0.907)

Outdoor solar energy prices in Africa

According to this report, installed costs for power generated by utility-scale solar PV projects in Africa have decreased as much as 61 per cent since 2012 to as low as USD 1.30 per watt in Africa, compared to the global average of USD 1.80 per watt. [pdf]

FAQS about Outdoor solar energy prices in Africa

Does Africa have a solar power market?

Africa is home to 60% of the best solar resources globally, yet only 3% of its electricity generation was met with solar PV in 2023. The new report provides new analysis on current market status, market outlook and opportunities to tap into this vast solar potential across the continent.

Where can solar power be used in West Africa?

Located in Kenhardt, this facility combines 540 MW of solar power with 225 MW of battery storage, offering a total potential of 1,140 MWh. The exceptionally high sunshine levels in West Africa provide a unique opportunity for solar energy exploitation.

How many solar plants are there in Africa?

The number of solar plants built in Africa remains low, representing barely 1 % of the continent’s total energy production. The International Energy Agency (IEA) highlights that the continent has 60 % of the world’s best solar resources. In 2023, 38 African countries are implementing solar installations with a capacity of over 1 megawatt (MW).

How much solar capacity does Africa have in 2024?

A Market on the Rise In 2024, Africa installed 2,402 MW of new solar capacity. While this marks a decrease from 3,076 MW in 2023, the shift reflects a broader regional market transformation, with emerging markets displaying remarkable growth.

Why is solar energy underutilized in Africa?

Solar energy, although the least expensive renewable source, remains underutilized in Africa. Despite immense potential, current investments are insufficient for large-scale deployment. Once viewed as a barrier to economic growth due to high costs, renewable energies, particularly solar, are gaining competitiveness.

Is West Africa a good place to invest in solar energy?

The exceptionally high sunshine levels in West Africa provide a unique opportunity for solar energy exploitation. The decline in photovoltaic technology costs is expected to stimulate this industry, but the region has yet to attract sufficient investment to ensure its development. However, efforts are underway to attract more investors.