Cabo Verde Unveils Major Wind and Battery Expansion: A New Era for Clean Energy
Cabo Verde has inaugurated a major expansion of the Cabeolica Wind Farm and a new Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), a landmark investment that promises not only cleaner power but also broad gains for the country’s economy, communities, and political resilience. The project, made possible by Africa Finance Corporation’s (AFC) catalytic €55 million bridge financing, adds 13.5 MW of wind capacity on Santiago and 26 MWh of battery storage across four islands.
The inauguration officiated by Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva gestures a turning point in Cabo Verde’s pursuit of energy independence. By accelerating the rollout, AFC’s early financing allowed the new wind turbines and advanced storage systems to come online sooner, stabilizing the grid and reducing the nation’s reliance on imported fossil fuels. For a small island state vulnerable to price shocks and climate volatility, the new infrastructure represents not just technological progress but also strengthened national sovereignty.
Away from the megawatts, the project delivers substantial human and social benefits. More stable electricity means fewer outages for households, more reliable power for hospitals and schools, and improved conditions for small businesses that form the backbone of Cabo Verde’s service-driven economy. The storage system is already improving frequency regulation, reducing curtailment, and allowing more renewable power to flow during peak demand—boosting everyday quality of life across the archipelago.
The achievement builds on Cabeolica’s long-standing contribution to the country. Since 2010, the company’s four-island network of wind farms has generated over 800,000 MWh of affordable electricity, supplying around a quarter of Cabo Verde’s total power while preventing more than 560,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions. With this new phase, Cabeolica strengthens its role as a regional model for how public–private partnerships can deliver sustainable, inclusive development.
Politically, the expansion reinforces Cabo Verde’s reputation as one of Africa’s most reliable clean-energy pioneers. The forthcoming increase in storage capacity, which is expected to reach nearly 30 MW by January 2026, will equip the grid to absorb even more intermittent renewables as the government advances its long-term goal of high renewable penetration. Ongoing financing discussions with the African Development Bank and the European Investment Bank underscore international confidence in Cabo Verde’s policy stability and climate ambition.
“AFC’s mission has remained unwavering: to catalyze renewable energy solutions that enhance the reliability and resilience of power systems across Africa” – said Samaila Zubairu, AFC President & CEO. He noted that pairing new wind capacity with one of Africa’s most advanced grid-stabilizing battery storage systems highlights AFC’s commitment to innovative infrastructure.
Ayotunde Anjorin, Chairman of Cabeolica, added that the project reaffirms the company’s dedication to delivering reliable, clean energy aligned with national priorities, and continues to set a replicable model for other African nations seeking affordable, low-carbon growth.
The expansion also forms part of a wider continental push. AFC’s portfolio company, Infinity Power, now Africa’s largest independent renewable energy provider, which recently achieved financial closed-deal on Egypt’s 200 MW Ras Ghareb Wind Farm, is expected to power more than 300,000 homes.
However, for Cabo Verde, the significance of the new Cabeolica expansion is deeply local: fewer blackouts, cleaner air, more resilient infrastructure and a stronger pathway to inclusive growth. As the turbines turn and the batteries charge, Cabo Verde’s modernizing its energy system will be powering a more secure and equitable future for its people.
