Expansion of solar energy in angola: Feasibility analysis and identification of strategic regions for the installation of photovoltaic systems

Angola has immense potential for photovoltaic solar energy generation, representing a sustainable alternative for expanding the country's electrification and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. This study aims to identify the most suitable areas for the installation of large-scale photovoltaic systems, assessing the technical, economic and environmental viability of these initiatives. The methodology adopted combines Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Multicriteria Analysis (AHP-MCA) to map and classify regions according to criteria such as solar radiation, terrain slope, proximity to the electricity grid and roads, land use and protected areas. In addition, the technical and economic viability was analyzed in five provinces with low electrification rates - Uíge, Huíla, Cunene, Bié and Lunda Norte - using PVsyst software for performance simulation and financial analysis. The results highlight the south and southeast of Angola as the most promising regions for implementing solar systems, with high radiation rates and favorable infrastructure. The economic analysis revealed payback times of between 11.9 and 13 years and competitive Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) values, ranging from 0.0492 EUR/kWh to 0.0550 EUR/kWh, reinforcing the attractiveness of these projects. In addition, the integration of floating photovoltaic systems in hydroelectric dams has shown potential for mitigating thermal losses and increasing energy efficiency. This study provides a technical and strategic basis for the expansion of solar energy in Angola, contributing to the diversification of the energy matrix and the promotion of sustainable development.