The Cape Verdean government’s Special Projects Management Unit (UGPE) has launched a tender for the construction of four solar photovoltaic power plants on four different islands in the archipelago. The aim of the project is to increase energy production capacity in the country and to promote renewable energy sources.
The solar power plants will be built as part of Cape Verde’s Renewable Energy and Improved Utility Performance Project (REIUP) and will be co-financed by several development partners, including the International Development Association (IDA) and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), both subsidiaries of the World Bank. The Canadian Clean Energy and Forest Climate Facility (CCEFCF) and the Global Infrastructure Facility (GIF) are also contributing to the funding of the project.
The scope of the work involves the construction of a 1.3 MWp solar park in Fogo, an island located in the southern part of the archipelago. Additionally, a 1.2 MWp solar power plant will be built on Santo Antão, and two 0.4 MW solar power plants will be constructed on the islands of São Nicolau and Maio.
Companies interested in the UGPE tender have until 30 March 2023 to apply, and after the signing of the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contracts, the selected companies are expected to start work in August 2023. The goal is to bring the solar power plants online in 2025.
The selected companies will also set up a training program for UGPE staff. The training will cover the day-to-day operation and maintenance of the solar power plants, and will equip local staff with the necessary skills and knowledge to successfully take over the design, construction, commissioning, operation, and maintenance of the solar PV systems at the end of the EPC contract.
The project is part of Cape Verde’s ongoing efforts to promote renewable energy sources and reduce the country’s dependence on imported fossil fuels. The archipelago, located off the coast of West Africa, has limited fossil fuel resources and relies heavily on imported oil for energy production.
Cape Verde has set an ambitious target to generate 50% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2025. The REIUP project is expected to contribute significantly to achieving this target.
In recent years, Cape Verde has made significant progress in promoting renewable energy sources. The country has been investing in wind and solar energy projects, and in 2019, inaugurated the largest solar power plant in West Africa. The 5 MW solar power plant, located on the island of Santiago, was built with the support of the World Bank and the European Investment Bank (EIB).
The project was part of Cape Verde’s efforts to transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy system. The solar power plant is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 4,600 tonnes per year and provide electricity to around 10,000 households.
The launch of the tender for the four solar PV plants is another significant step towards achieving Cape Verde’s renewable energy targets. The project is expected to not only increase energy production capacity but also create job opportunities and promote economic development on the islands where the solar power plants will be built.
In conclusion, the launch of the tender for the construction of four solar photovoltaic power plants in Cape Verde is a significant step towards achieving the country’s renewable energy targets. The project is co-financed by several development partners and is expected to increase energy production capacity, promote economic development, and create job opportunities. The solar power plants will be built as part of Cape Verde’s Renewable Energy and Improved Utility Performance Project and will be constructed on four different islands in the archipelago.
Jonas Muthoni is an entrepreneur and renewable energy expert. He is the founder of MicroGridMedia.com, a website dedicated to bringing the latest news and information about solar energy and other renewable energy sources to the public. Jonas is passionate about promoting sustainable energy solutions and educating the public about the benefits of renewable energy. He is a regular speaker at industry events and conferences and is committed to driving the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.