German multinational technology company Voith has secured a one-billion-dollar contract to supply and install electrical and mechanical equipment for the 2,172 MW Caculo Cabaça hydropower plant in Angola’s Kwanza Norte Province.
The project involves the installation of four 530 MW hydropower turbines, a 52 MW turbine, generators, and control and auxiliary systems.
Under the contract, Voith will also establish a training center to foster local skills development and provide post-commissioning support services to ensure optimal operation of the power plant.
The Caculo Cabaça hydropower plant, set to be completed by 2030, will play a pivotal role in Angola‘s renewable energy ambitions, accounting for two-thirds of installed hydropower generation capacity.
Beyond its immediate impact on energy supplies, the project aligns with Angola’s strategy to harness its renewable resources, presenting attractive opportunities for clean energy project developers and service providers in-country.
With an impressive 40 GW of technically feasible hydropower potential, Angola stands out as one of the promising renewable markets on the continent.
The country is seeking to increase the share of renewables in its energy mix to 70% by 2025, as outlined by its Angola Renewable Energy Program.
Untapped hydropower potential is set to play a key role in driving energy access and security, while presenting fertile ground for local and foreign investors to engage with Angola’s clean energy revolution.
Since 2017, Angola has raised its national electrification rate from 33% to nearly 45% through a mix of renewable and gas-powered expansion.
As the government targets 60% electrification by 2025, the development of mini- and large-scale hydropower projects serves as a pathway to achieving sustainable development goals.
With a growing focus on economic diversification and job creation, Angola’s hydropower sector also represents a key avenue for diversified revenue streams and employment generation.
The Caculo Cabaça hydropower project alone has the potential to create 7,000 jobs, coupled with training and skills development that comes from foreign partners like Voith.
The next edition of Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) – scheduled for September 2024 – is set to showcase Angola’s significant hydropower potential and associated opportunities across its renewable energy spectrum.
Serving as the official meeting place for Angola’s energy policymakers, stakeholders and investors, AOG 2024 will connect clean energy investors and developers with new opportunities, as billion-dollar contracts continue to be awarded.
