PRAIA, Cabo Verde — August 20, 2026 — The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the ECOWAS Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (ECREEE) have strengthened cooperation with Cabo Verde as the island nation works to advance its energy transition and expand the use of renewable energy.
The discussions focused on renewable-energy development, energy efficiency and how Cabo Verde’s transition can contribute to the broader ECOWAS regional integration agenda.
Cabo Verde faces a particular energy challenge because, as an island country, it has historically depended heavily on imported fuels. That dependence can leave the country exposed to fluctuations in international energy prices and transportation costs. At the same time, Cabo Verde has significant opportunities to expand renewable sources, particularly wind and solar energy.
Closer cooperation with ECOWAS and ECREEE could help the country strengthen its renewable-energy sector while benefiting from regional expertise, policy coordination and energy-transition initiatives.
The cooperation also carries significance beyond Cabo Verde. ECOWAS has been working to improve energy security across West Africa by promoting renewable energy, energy efficiency and greater regional cooperation in the power sector. Expanding clean-energy capacity among member states can help reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels and support more resilient national energy systems.
For Cabo Verde, increasing domestic renewable-energy production could improve energy security and reduce its vulnerability to external energy shocks. For ECOWAS, the partnership demonstrates how regional institutions can support individual member states while pursuing wider regional objectives.
The August 20 engagement highlights an important part of West African integration: countries do not necessarily face their energy challenges alone. By sharing expertise, coordinating policies and investing in renewable-energy development, ECOWAS member states can work toward a cleaner, more secure and increasingly integrated regional energy future.