A renewable energy penetration rate of 21.6% is projected by 2025, with new solar photovoltaic projects planned for five islands—Santo Antão, São Nicolau, Fogo, Maio, and Brava—thereby establishing renewable energy presence across all islands, according to a statement released following a general assembly on Thursday, where activity plans and budgets for 2025 were approved.
The documents highlight projections that wind energy production on Santiago island will reach a penetration rate of 38.5%, while solar energy is expected to achieve a 36.1% penetration on the island of Sal.
The government has set a target to ensure that 50% of energy is produced from renewable sources by 2030.
Nonetheless, on the country’s main tourist island, Sal, which hosts numerous resorts attracting thousands of European tourists, a new 15.2 MW diesel power plant will be constructed, supported by the French Development Agency.
Investments are also planned to modernize the network, as around one-fifth of the energy produced is lost, particularly on Santiago island, where the loss nearly reaches one-third.
Similarly, a program aimed at combating water losses, which includes participation by electricity companies, is set to be launched.
The sector comprises the electricity companies Electra, EDEC (distribution), EPEC (production), and ONSEC (operator). The first two companies report financial deficits, while the latter two have surpluses, according to the statement.
