Angola Achieves Energy Milestone With 26.14 MW Saurimo Photovoltaic Park Inauguration

The Minister of Energy and Water, João Baptista Borges, and the governor of Lunda Sul, Daniel Félix Neto, led the inauguration ceremony of the Saurimo Photovoltaic Park in Lunda Sul. The event was graced by the presence of esteemed government officials, including the Secretary of State for Energy, Arlindo Carlos, and ambassadors from the United States of America, South Korea, and Portugal.

Governor Daniel Félix Neto expressed his satisfaction with the project, highlighting its significance in alleviating energy restrictions in Saurimo, where dependence on fuel-operated thermal plants posed significant challenges. The project garnered praise from international partners, with ambassadors commending the cooperation between countries to foster progress.

Minister João Baptista Borges underscored the economic benefits of the solar park, emphasizing the substantial savings in diesel costs and the project’s contribution to Angola’s goal of providing electricity access to 50% of the population by 2027. He also emphasized the importance of technician training and the inclusion of water supply in the project.

In technical terms, the Saurimo Photovoltaic Park boasts an installed capacity of 26.14 MW and will cater to approximately 171 thousand people. With a budget of 38.8 million euros, the project comprises 44,850 solar panels and is expected to save over 19 million liters of fuel annually, while preventing emissions of more than 68 thousand tons of CO2.

This inauguration marks the first of seven solar parks planned across various provinces in Angola, totaling a capacity of 370 MWp and aiming for completion by the year’s end. These parks will significantly reduce diesel consumption, leading to substantial savings in fuel import costs and promoting environmental sustainability.

As part of the inauguration event, the delegation also visited the Txicumina plant and PS01, underscoring Angola’s commitment to advancing renewable energy infrastructure and fostering sustainable development.