The ECOWAS Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (ECREEE) proudly announces the inauguration of an electrification project in Chã das Caldeiras on the island of Fogo, Cabo Verde, powered by a solar photovoltaic mini-grid. Developed in partnership with the local AgroCoopCha cooperative, and funded by the Cabo Verde government, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and ECREEE through the ECOWAS Special Intervention Fund (ESIF), this project provides universal access to electricity for the first time to the local community.
The project includes an installed solar photovoltaic capacity of 40 kWp, a 150 kWh battery energy storage system, a 50 kVA generator, a 5-kilometer underground electricity distribution network, and 210 planned connections. This initiative aims to electrify the Chã das Caldeiras community of approximately 800 inhabitants living in the crater of the Pico do Fogo volcano.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by the Prime Minister of Cabo Verde, Dr. Ulisses Correia e Silva; ECREEE Executive Director, Mr. Francis Sempore; the Deputy Chief of Mission of the U.S. Embassy in Cabo Verde, Ms. Margaret McElligott; Mayor of Santa Catarina, Dr. Alberto Nunes; and representatives from AgroCoopCha and the Municipality of Santa Catarina.
This mini-grid project is one of many initiatives under the ECOWAS Special Intervention Fund (ESIF) and exemplifies ECREEE’s commitment to promoting renewable energy in West Africa. Throughout the year, ECREEE has successfully launched clean energy projects, including mini-grids, solar home systems, and solar pumping systems in Nigeria, The Gambia, and Togo.
ECREEE remains dedicated to expanding access to renewable energy, enhancing energy security, and mitigating climate change impacts through innovative and sustainable projects. The electrification of Chã das Caldeiras stands as a significant achievement in the region’s energy landscape. Upcoming clean energy projects financed by ESIF will be inaugurated in Benin, Ghana, and Senegal in the coming months.
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 inaugurates a solar mini-grid project in Chã das Caldeiras, Cabo Verde, providing universal electricity access to 800 residents. Funded by the Cabo Verde government, USAID, and ECREEE, the project marks a significant milestone in sustainable energy development.){kind=link}