Angola’s Secretary of State for Energy, Arlindo Bota Manuel Carlos, has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to expanding oil exploration while also accelerating the transition to cleaner energy sources.
Speaking to Lusa on the sidelines of the 2nd CPLP Energy Conference in Estoril, Portugal, Carlos said Angola values the support of Portugal and Brazil in the development of energy projects.
“Oil exploration should not be seen as a threat. We will not abandon the use of our natural resources, provided that extraction follows best international environmental practices and serves to improve the lives of our citizens,” he said.
Carlos emphasized that Angola, as a sovereign nation, will make decisions that are both sustainable for its economy and aligned with cooperation agreements—highlighting Portugal as a key partner.
He indirectly referred to the role of Portuguese company Galp in oil operations within Angola. Brazil was also noted as a strategic partner in the energy sector, with Carlos describing it as “one of the Government of Angola’s most important allies.”
While oil exploration will continue, the Secretary of State did not provide specific timelines for future concessions or new exploration zones.
In addition to fossil fuels, Angola is actively pursuing energy diversification. Carlos highlighted ongoing and planned projects in natural gas and combined cycle power plants, noting Angola’s considerable gas reserves.
One such project includes a 750 MW combined cycle plant in northern Angola, already in operation.
He added that Angola is exploring a more open, market-driven model for energy development, welcoming private investment in gas-fired plants, provided concession contracts for gas supply are in place.
Several private entities have shown interest, but no feasibility studies have been submitted yet.
Carlos underscored Angola’s commitment to a greener energy mix, reporting that 64% of the country’s current energy capacity is from renewable sources—60% from hydro and 4% from solar.
This does not yet include the 2,172 MW Caculo Cabaça hydroelectric dam under construction or ongoing solar projects aimed at electrifying rural and underserved communities.
Angola’s electrification rate stands at 44%, with a goal to reach 50% by 2027. Carlos contrasted current achievements with historical challenges, noting that many areas now receiving electricity had been neglected during the colonial era.
Angola has also significantly reduced its diesel consumption—from 1.36 billion liters in 2015 to 430 million liters in 2024—cutting greenhouse gas emissions by over 1.1 billion liters in fuel use annually.
“The oil economy enables us to invest in alternative energy and bring electricity to more of our people,” Carlos said. “We are building an energy system that supports development and combats poverty through greater access and sustainability.”
