ANPG signs agreements with Angolan Universities to boost the biofuels value chain

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Lagos, Nigeria – Angola’s National Agency for Petroleum, Gas, and Biofuels (ANPG) has signed strategic agreements with four leading academic institutions to accelerate research and innovation in the biofuels sector. The initiative involves Agostinho Neto University (UAN), José Eduardo dos Santos University (UJES), the Catholic University of Angola (UCAN), and the Higher Polytechnic Institute of Technologies and Sciences (ISPTEC).

AfricaHeadline Reports Team
editorial@dw-demosnewstaion.online 

The agreements, formalized on February 26, establish three pilot projects focused on biofuel production, agroecological zoning, and biomass assessment. The objective is to expand scientific knowledge and promote sustainable energy solutions in Angola, aligning with the global transition to renewable energy.

The first project, led by UAN and ISPTEC, focuses on experimental biofuel production. Researchers will test methods such as esterification, transesterification, hydrolysis, and fermentation, analyzing the efficiency of these fuels in internal combustion systems. The study will assess emissions, mechanical power, and energy consumption, exploring the feasibility of partially replacing fossil fuels.

UJES will oversee the “Likongela Esumuluho Ya Yela” (LEYA) project, aimed at developing a detailed agroecological zoning plan to support biofuel production in the provinces of Moxico, Huambo, and Bié. This initiative seeks to map suitable areas for cultivating raw materials for sustainable biofuel production.

UCAN will conduct a biomass assessment in the provinces of Bengo and Kwanza Norte. The study will analyze environmental factors in Luanda, Malanje, and Uíge to evaluate agricultural viability and identify forest, agricultural, and urban biomass, determining the best methods for collecting and utilizing agroforestry waste.

The signing ceremony was attended by ANPG Chairman Paulino Jerónimo, alongside representatives from the academic institutions. UCAN Rector Maria de Assunção, UAN Vice-Rector Sabino Nascimento, ISPTEC President João Manuel, and UJES Vice-Rector Ataúlfo Pereira were present at the event.

During his speech, Paulino Jerónimo emphasized the importance of collaboration between ANPG and academia in building a sustainable energy future.

“The agreement we are formalizing today is a testament to our commitment to academic excellence, technology, and innovation. Biofuels are a key challenge in the energy transition, and through these partnerships, we are investing in the search for sustainable solutions for our country,” he stated.

The collaboration between ANPG and universities began in September 2023 with the signing of memorandums of understanding (MoUs) for joint research in the energy sector. With these new agreements, the expectation is that the projects will move into the practical phase, fostering a knowledge ecosystem that strengthens Angola’s energy independence.