The first phase of the 50 megawatts Caraculo photovoltaic power plant project in Angola has entered into operation. This comes following an inauguration ceremony that was carried out by the project’s developer.
The project is developed by Solenova Consortium, which comprises Eni and Sonangol. Eni S.p.A. is an Italian multinational energy company and one of the seven “supermajor” oil companies in the world. Sonangol on the other hand is the Angolan energy parastatal. Formerly the latter oversaw petroleum and natural gas production in the country. Today, however, its business model also includes renewable energies.
The inauguration ceremony of the 25MW phase was attended by several officials. These included the Minister of Oil and Gas, Diamantino Azevedo, and the Minister in Charge of Energy and Water, João Baptista Borges. Sergio Pugliese, the President of the African Energy Chamber of Angola, was also present.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony Pugliese said that the ceremony demonstrates the Angolan government’s commitment to the energy transition.
About the Caraculo photovoltaic power plant project in Angola
The facility is being built near the small town of Caraculo, in Namibe Province, southwestern Angola. The project has had significant benefits so far including the creation of employment opportunities for over 400 residents during and after construction.
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Additionally, the facility will provide cheaper electricity, a reliable source of energy throughout the year, and significant fuel cost savings. It will also contribute to the country’s objective of increasing the country’s installed power generating capacity to 9.9 gigatonnes (GW) and achieving a 60% electrification rate by 2025.
Moreover, Caraculo photovoltaic power plant will be able to prevent 50 KtCO2eq of GHG emissions per year in terms of environmental advantages.
