Angola is stepping up its fight against climate change with a growing portfolio of renewable energy projects aimed at reducing carbon emissions, enhancing energy security, and protecting vulnerable communities from the adverse effects of climate shocks.
Under the leadership of Minister João Baptista Borges, the Ministry of Energy and Water is rolling out a new phase of investments in clean energy, in alignment with the nation’s commitments under the Paris Agreement and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
A Climate-Smart Energy Vision
At the recent Angola Green Growth Conference held in Luanda, Minister Borges highlighted the role of clean energy in climate resilience:
“Our energy plan is not just about access — it’s about sustainability. Every solar panel, every small hydropower plant we install is part of our national shield against climate instability,” he affirmed.
Angola is particularly vulnerable to prolonged droughts, unpredictable rainfall, and extreme weather events. These conditions threaten agriculture, water access, and public health. To counter this, the government is leveraging green energy as both a development and climate strategy.
Key Renewable Projects Underway
Some of the flagship initiatives include:
- Biopio Solar Complex: With a capacity of 500 MW, this solar park is one of the largest in Central Africa and is expected to offset over 600,000 tons of CO₂
- Small Hydropower Revitalization Program: Targeting rural provinces with new or rehabilitated plants in Cunje, Luachimo, and Mucoso.
- Wind and Solar Hybrid Pilots: In coastal and semi-arid zones to reduce dependency on diesel generators.
These projects are being developed with the support of international partners, including the World Bank, the African Development Bank, and several European investors.
Strengthening Rural Resilience
Beyond environmental benefits, renewable energy is transforming daily life in Angola’s most climate-affected regions.
In Cuando Cubango, for example, off-grid solar systems are powering water pumps, enabling small-scale irrigation and reducing the impact of rainfall variability. In Cunene, solar-powered cold chains are helping communities preserve food and medicines during long dry spells.
“Resilience starts at the village level,” said Borges. “With energy, we give our people the tools to adapt and thrive.”
Regional and Global Commitments
Minister João Baptista Borges is also ensuring Angola plays an active role on the international climate stage. Angola participated in the 2025 African Climate Summit and is preparing to submit an updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) that includes:
- A commitment to reach 72% renewable generation by 2030.
- A target of reducing national energy-related emissions by 20% by 2035.
- A roadmap for green hydrogen pilot projects starting in 2026.
These actions position Angola as one of the fastest-moving countries in Southern Africa toward a low-carbon energy future.
Capacity Building and Innovation
The Ministry is investing not only in infrastructure, but also in human capital and innovation:
- Technical training centers are being expanded in Huambo and Benguela.
- Universities are partnering with the government to research solar storage, smart grids, and climate-adaptive energy solutions.
- Local entrepreneurs are being encouraged to lead in green business through the “Green Energy Challenge Fund.”
Angola’s renewable energy expansion under Minister João Baptista Borges is more than an energy policy — it’s a national climate resilience strategy. The commitment to sustainable energy is improving livelihoods, reducing emissions, and building the country’s defenses against an unpredictable climate.
“In every kilowatt of clean energy, there is hope — for our environment, our economy, and our future generations,” said Borges.
As climate risks rise, Angola is proving that resilience begins with a clear vision — and the power to implement it.
