Angola Approves 30-Year Electricity Corridor to Supply Power to DRC
Angola Grants Somagec 30-Year Power Transmission Deal to Export Electricity to DR Congo
Angola has granted Somagec Energy Holding Limited (SEHL) a 30-year concession to develop and operate an electricity transmission system that will enable power exports to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The project, known as the Northern Corridor, will also strengthen electricity supply to Angola’s Cabinda Province.
The concession was awarded under a Build, Own, Operate and Transfer (BOOT) model, allowing Somagec to take responsibility for financing, construction, operation, maintenance, and eventual transfer of the infrastructure to the Angolan state.
The arrangement is designed to limit direct financial obligations for the government.
The Northern Corridor includes a 400 kV double-circuit transmission line connecting Soyo, Matadi, and Inga, with an estimated length of 181 kilometres and capacity of up to 800 MW.
The project also includes a 220 kV transmission line linking Matadi and Cabinda, as well as a 60 kV connection between Cabinda and Moanda, alongside supporting substations and related infrastructure.
The initiative forms part of Angola’s strategy to expand its electricity network, improve energy security, and strengthen its position as a regional power supplier within the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) and the Central African Power Pool (PEAC).
The project will support electricity exports to the DRC through a Power Supply Agreement between Angola’s National Electricity Transmission Network (RNT-EP) and Somagec.
Implementation remains subject to final feasibility approvals, financing confirmation, licensing, and technical validation of the transmission route.
The development represents a major step toward deeper regional electricity integration, improving cross-border energy trade and expanding access to reliable power across Central and Southern Africa.
