- The Angola solar energy drive has achieved a milestone with seven photovoltaic plants across multiple provinces.
- The drive now supplies renewable electricity to nearly 2.4 million people nationwide.
The Angola solar energy drive has achieved a milestone with seven completed photovoltaic plants. Consequently, this progress highlights Angola’s decisive shift towards renewable power and reduced reliance on diesel generation.
In early September, officials inaugurated the Bailundo Photovoltaic Park in Huambo province. This facility completed the 370MW Solar Photovoltaic Project, developed by MCA Group and Sun Africa. As a result, the Angola solar energy drive now delivers renewable electricity to nearly 2.4 million people nationwide.
Furthermore, the solar parks supply power to millions, cut carbon emissions by one million tonnes, and save 1.4 million litres of diesel yearly.
The six additional sites include Biopio (188MWp), Baía Farta (96MWp), Saurimo (26.1MWp), Luena (26.9MWp), Lucapa (7.2MWp), and Cuito (14.65MWp). These projects stretch across Benguela, Huambo, Bié, Lunda Norte, Lunda Sul, and Moxico provinces.
In addition, consultant Dar oversaw the design review and supervision. They explained that Biopio and Baía Farta, the first utility-scale solar plants, opened in July 2022. These facilities include 770,400 solar panels with complete civil and electrical infrastructure.
Progress continued quickly. For example, Saurimo began operations in April 2024, supplying renewable electricity to about 171,000 people. Meanwhile, Cuito launched in August, followed by Luena and Lucapa. Step by step, each addition boosted energy stability across the regions.
The new plant marks a turning point for Bailundo, home to about 373,000 residents. Previously, the community endured frequent blackouts and unreliable supply. Now, MCA stresses that the plant strengthens production, improves distribution, and ensures more stable grid performance.
Nationally, Angola’s electricity access rate reached 51.1% in 2023, reflecting steady growth from the previous year. The government sets an ambitious path by targeting 60% electrification by 2025. With these projects, Angola advances towards universal access while solidifying its leadership in Africa’s renewable transformation.