Cape Verde - Electricity Transmission and Distribution Network Development Project

The Electricity Transmission and Distribution Network Development Project on Santo Antão, Sao Vicente, Sal, Maio, Santiago and Fogo Islands was designed after a feasibility study completed in September 2010 with financing from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The project will help to upgrade power distribution networks to improve access to electricity and service efficiency and quality. The project will extend the MV/LV networks, strengthen and rehabilitate transmission lines and sub-stations, install the SCADA system comprising control, defect identification and management equipment (power cut and remote restoration) for distribution networks in three islands, and replacement of faulty meters. These activities will help to: (i) harmonize the voltage level at 20 kV for power distribution on all the islands covered by the project; (ii) reduce losses; (iii) increase the rate of access by the population to electricity services; (iv) reduce the duration of power outages caused by network defects; and (v) improve ELECTRA’s commercial performance. Its implementation will contribute to achieving the primary objective of the electricity sector development strategy, which seeks to raise power utility quality in Cape Verde.