Angola’s Minister of Energy and Water, João Baptista Borges, stated during the closing of the 15th International Infrastructure Investment and Construction Forum (IIICF), held in Macau, China, that Angola is making progress in electricity supply, with an increasing focus on renewable energy sources, although significant challenges remain.
During his participation in the forum, which focused on the theme “Green Innovation – Digital Connectivity,” Minister Borges addressed Energy Transition, highlighting the importance of new energy sources, strategies, and missions to drive the development of high-quality productive forces.
Borges noted that Angola acknowledges climate change as one of the biggest global challenges, directly impacting the economic and social life of nations. He mentioned that the country has adopted the National Strategy for Climate Change 2021-2035 to meet the Paris Agreement goals and align with sustainable development objectives, such as the Africa Agenda 2063 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The minister underscored Angola’s commitment to reducing carbon intensity in electricity production by 2025, while also taking action in areas like sustainable forest management, transportation, and agriculture. He also highlighted climate projects aimed at community resilience and safeguarding economic and social investments. Currently, 64% of Angola’s energy matrix is composed of clean sources.
The Energy Sector Action Plan for 2023-2027, aligned with the Agenda 2050, targets increasing renewable energy sources to 72% by 2027, with a focus on expanding solar energy and raising the electrification rate to 50%. This will require an estimated investment of $12 billion, with critical contributions from the private sector and financial institutions.
The minister highlighted the completion of key projects, such as the solar plants in Biópio, Luena, Baía Farta, and Saurimo, expected to be operational by 2024, along with others in advanced construction stages. He also emphasized the importance of cooperation with China, which is leading the Global Energy Transition with investments in solar energy and electromobility, potentially benefiting Angola through investment and financing.
The event was attended by Angolan officials, including Angola’s Consul General in Macau and other senior representatives from the Ministry of Energy and Water.
