Angola plans photovoltaic panel factory

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[ACCI-CAVIE] In a significant step toward enhancing its renewable energy capabilities, Angola has embarked on an ambitious project to establish a photovoltaic panel factory.

On October 18, 2024, Sonangol, the national oil company, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Chinese firm QINGHAI LIHAO CLEAN ENERGY to develop this initiative within the photovoltaic solar energy industrial chain.

The planned factory is set to produce photovoltaic panels using quartz ore as its primary raw material. With an impressive annual production capacity of 180,000 tons of metallurgical silicon and 150,000 tons of polysilicon, the initial phase aims to produce 50,000 tons. This marks a pivotal move for Angola as it seeks to bolster its domestic manufacturing capabilities in the renewable energy sector.

According to a statement from Sonangol, the memorandum was signed by Chairman Gaspar Martins and Executive Director Wang Fu of QINGHAI LIHAO CLEAN ENERGY. This collaboration lays the groundwork for Angola to develop its own solar panel industry within the next few years, focusing on the extraction of quartz and the production of essential materials for solar panel manufacturing.

This initiative aligns with Angola’s broader goal of retaining and processing minerals domestically, rather than relying on the export of raw materials. By fostering a local solar panel industry, Angola aims to enhance its energy independence and contribute to its energy transition strategy. Solar energy is increasingly recognized as a vital component of this strategy, offering a sustainable solution to meet the growing energy demands of the country.

As Angola moves forward with this project, it positions itself as a player in the global renewable energy landscape, emphasizing the importance of local production and sustainable practices. The establishment of the photovoltaic panel factory not only represents a step toward energy sustainability but also highlights Angola’s commitment to harnessing its natural resources for the benefit of its economy and its people.

The editorial team