Africa-Press – Cape verde. Construction work on four photovoltaic power plants on different islands in the country can go ahead without any risks and the operation should have “positive” effects on the environment, according to studies published by the Government and consulted today by Lusa.
“The risks and negative impacts are not significant, and the development of the project is even expected to have some positive effects, namely in terms of reducing dependence on fossil fuels for electricity production, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality,” the documents read.
The Government has published four social and environmental impact studies for the expansion of the plants that will produce electricity from the sun on the islands of Santo Antão, São Nicolau, Maio and Fogo.
Likewise, some benefits are expected to arise from the creation of local jobs, both during the construction period – which, when it goes ahead, will take around six months – and during the operational phase.
The studies predict that the plants will operate for 20 years.
The investments will be implemented under the Renewable Energy and Improvement of Public Services Performance Project, linked to the country’s commitment to increase the production and coverage of electricity from renewable energy resources.
To this end, the Government has obtained support from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), the International Development Association (IDA/World Bank), the “Canada Clean Energy and Forest Climate” fund and the “Global Infrastructure Facility”.
The Government has set a target of having 50% of energy produced from renewable sources by 2030.
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