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Palmarejo Solar Power Plant

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Palmarejo Solar Power Plant (Cape Verde)

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The Palmarejo solar power plant in Praia is one of Cape Verde's largest photovoltaic projects and a significant milestone in the country's efforts to increase the share of clean energy. Completed in 2010, the plant was built with financial support from the Portuguese government and comprises over 20,000 solar panels. With an installed capacity of 5 megawatts, the facility generates a substantial amount of electricity annually, which is fed directly into the national grid. The project is located in a region with extremely high solar radiation, optimizing the plant's efficiency. The facility contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 7,000 tons per year and relieves the country from expensive fuel imports for diesel generators. Palmarejo also serves as a research and training center for Cape Verdean technicians in the field of renewable energies. The project underscores the archipelago's vision to meet over 50% of its electricity needs from renewable sources by 2030.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C232222232324252727272624
Rain mm22208544125682453730

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
The Palmarejo Solar Power Plant is a large photovoltaic facility in Praia, Cape Verde, harnessing the region's intense solar radiation. It plays a key role in the sustainable energy supply of the capital, significantly reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
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Visiting
The facility itself is not typically open to visitors for security reasons, but surrounding public roads provide good views. From elevated spots in Praia, the extensive solar panel fields can be seen in the distance.
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Where to view it
A good viewpoint is the road along the southern boundary of the plant, where the rows of panels are directly visible. From the hill above Praia city center, you also get a good overview of the area.
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Local products
Visitors can experience locally generated solar power indirectly in Praia, for instance by using electric vehicle charging stations. The region also has a growing market for solar household appliances and lighting.
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Active season
The plant operates year-round but achieves peak production during the sunniest months between November and May. During this dry season, cloud cover is minimal, maximizing the facility's efficiency.
Nearby
Combine the visit with exploring Praia's historic center, the Plateau, and the Mercado Municipal. The beach of Quebra Canela and the Ethnographic Museum also make for a complementary day trip.

Geography

Coordinates
14.94500, -23.53500

Facts

  • Completed in the year 2010
  • Installed capacity of 5 MW
  • More than 20,000 photovoltaic modules
  • Funded by a Portuguese loan
  • Saves approximately 7,000 tons of CO2 annually
  • The country's first major solar power plant

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Sights in the town Palmarejo Solar Power Plant (1)

Baobáb📍 landmark

A massive, ancient African baobab tree with a distinctive thick trunk, serving as a natural landmark in the area.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Palmarejo solar plant?
It is one of Cape Verde's largest photovoltaic facilities promoting renewable energy.
Can the plant be visited?
Professional visitors can request a tour by appointment with the operating company.
Why is it important for Santiago?
It significantly reduces dependence on expensive imported fossil fuels.
Where exactly is the facility located?
It is located on the edge of the Palmarejo district in Praia, clearly visible from the main road.
How much power does it produce?
The facility contributes several megawatts to the capital's base power supply.
Palmarejo Solar Power Plant: where is it located?
Palmarejo Solar Power Plant is located in Cape Verde.
Palmarejo Solar Power Plant: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Palmarejo Solar Power Plant: why is it worth visiting?
The Palmarejo solar power plant in Praia is one of Cape Verde's largest photovoltaic projects and a significant milestone in the country's efforts to increase the share of clean energy.
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