Cabo Verde is taking significant strides towards its goal of generating 50% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030 with the expansion of the Cabeólica Phase II project. Support from other regional banks and initiatives The initiative received funding from the African Development Bank (AfDB). It will deliver and install five systems in four islands, enhancing the nation’s renewable energy capacity and sustainability.
This ambitious project features an exciting new wind expansion, particularly in Santiago. It consists of deploying battery energy storage systems (BESS) in Santiago, Sal, Boa Vista and São Vicente. The Cabeólica Phase II expansion seeks an equally remarkable expansion of 13.5 megawatts (MW) of wind generation capacity. Beyond that, it will add 26 megawatt-hours (MWh) of grid-connected battery storage.
Project Details and Impact
As part of the expansion, Ford plans to produce more than 60 GWh of clean energy annually. This contribution will significantly improve Cabo Verde’s energy matrix. Though it may seem counterintuitive, this massive uptick in renewable energy production will lead to substantially reduced system costs. In addition, it will promote energy security across the archipelago. Cabeólica Phase II is a milestone project for Cabo Verde. By successfully connecting utility-scaled wind power generation with grid-scale battery energy storage systems, it has become the nation’s first independent power producer.
The project is jointly owned by Africa Finance Corporation and AP Moller Capital, as well as a number of Cabo Verde’s public authorities. The financing package for the expansion totals €19.6 million. This comprises a €12.6 million loan from the AfDB and an extra €7 million from the AfDB’s Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa. This funding will ensure the city’s successful implementation of the project and serve to further the nation’s goals as a whole.
Environmental Benefits
Cabeólica Phase II is expected to save 640,000 tons of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions per year. We anticipate reducing emissions by about 50,000 tonnes per year. This significant reduction is in line with global efforts to work toward combatting climate change and marks Cabo Verde’s dedication to sustainable, renewable energy solutions. Importantly, integrating renewable energy sources begins to address environmental justice issues directly. It supports local economies by creating good-paying jobs and advancing our energy independence.
Installations are intentionally located throughout Santiago, Sal, Boa Vista and São Vicente. This strategic placement ensures that communities across the U.S. will have increased access to the benefits of renewable energy. This distribution is key to making sure all communities can reap the benefits of cleaner energy technologies.
Future Prospects
Cabo Verde’s leadership is making renewable energy a political priority. Cabeólica Phase II is an important part of this national strategy. The project contributes to the administration’s larger vision of sustainability and energy security, while supporting economic development by bolstering creative energy technologies.