The Solar Energy Center in Bailundo municipality, Huambo province, will provide benefits to more than 51,023 residents. The Minister of Energy and Water’s itinerary for today, December 12, includes a comprehensive schedule of visits to Bailundo, Ecunha, and Huambo municipalities in the southern region.

On Tuesday, December 12, the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the Photovoltaic Solar Center in Bailundo was held. This center, with a production capacity of 7,992 MWdc, is part of the Angola 2025 Plan initiated by the Angolan government. The primary aim is to enhance electrification rates by leveraging eco-friendly energy sources, thereby aiding households and businesses in transitioning from irregular and costly fossil fuel energy to more affordable and environmentally friendly options.

The ceremony was overseen by the Minister of Energy and Water, João Baptista Borges, in the company of Provincial Governor Notti Nolika and the King of Bailundo, Chiongolola Chongonga. Also present were high-ranking officials from MINEA, the energy sector, DNEER, PRODEL, ENDE, and local government. The signing of the Consignment Deed was conducted by representatives from PRODEL and MCA on behalf of the Angolan government.

During the event, the minister underscored the significance of this milestone, emphasizing the objectives outlined by President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço to deliver cleaner and more cost-effective energy to Angolan families. The overarching goal is to achieve approximately 70% renewable energy in the national energy matrix by 2027, thereby enhancing citizens’ quality of life.

With a budget of EUR 20,271,445.00, the project is slated for completion in 2023. It involves the installation of 15,600 panels and is expected to generate 50 direct jobs. Following the ceremony, the minister and his delegation conducted an assessment visit to the project site before proceeding to Ecunha Municipality to evaluate progress on electrification initiatives. João Baptista Borges João Baptista Borges