Will Cape Verde get 100% of its electricity by 2025?

As part of its “sustainable energy for all” agenda, it has pledged to obtain 100% of its electricity from renewable resources by 2025. Cape Verde is made up of 10 islands, nine of which are inhabited, that lie about 600km west of Senegal.

What is Cape Verde's goal?

Cape Verde’s goal is 100% renewable energy by 2025. Why it may just do it Cape Verde’s goal is 100% renewable energy by 2025. Why it may just do it Cape Verde’s renewable energy resources account for about 25% of total energy production. Shutterstock

Are Cape Verde communities using a solar and wind-based micro-grid?

At least three communities in Cape Verde are already using a solar and wind-based micro-grid. A microgrid is a local electricity grid. It includes electricity generation, distribution to customers, and, in some cases, energy storage.

What technology could be integrated into Cape Verde's electricity generation offering?

Another technology that could be integrated into the electricity generation offering is the country’s desalination systems. Many of Cape Verde’s communities depend partially, or entirely, on these for drinking water.

Can Cape Verde use ocean thermal energy?

Cape Verde could also take advantage of an emerging technology called ocean thermal energy conversion. This uses the difference between warm surface water and cold, deep ocean water to produce electricity. It works best in equatorial latitudes where there is a large difference in temperature between surface water and deep water.

Does Cape Verde have a wind farm?

It has wind resources like Morocco, the solar potential of the Sahel, geothermal resources like Kenya, and marine energy comparable to many coastal countries. Cape Verde’s northeasterly trade winds are considered excellent for wind power production. A wind farm typically requires wind speeds of at least 6.4 m/s at 50m above ground.