Trafigura withdraws from major Angola power transmission project, sources say

Wednesday 15 July 2026 - 16:15

By: Sahili Aya

Trafigura withdraws from major Angola power transmission project, sources say

Trafigura has withdrawn from plans to develop a major cross-border electricity transmission project that would have exported surplus hydropower from Angola to mining operations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Zambia, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The proposed project envisioned a 2,000-megawatt transmission line designed to supply reliable electricity to some of Central Africa's most important copper and cobalt mining regions, where power shortages continue to constrain production.

Strategic energy project loses key backer

According to sources with direct knowledge of the project, Trafigura has decided not to proceed with the initiative, representing a setback for one of several privately financed infrastructure projects intended to strengthen regional energy integration.

The transmission line was expected to transport excess hydropower generated in Angola to neighboring countries with growing industrial electricity demand, particularly in the mining sector.

Neither the reasons for Trafigura's decision nor the future of the project have been officially detailed.

Angola remains central to regional power ambitions

Despite Trafigura's withdrawal, Angola continues to be viewed as a potential regional energy hub because of its significant surplus hydropower generation capacity.

Several large-scale transmission projects are being developed to connect Angolan electricity supplies with mining operations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Zambia, where demand for stable power continues to rise alongside global demand for critical minerals.

Copper and cobalt mined in the region are essential components in electric vehicle batteries, renewable energy technologies and advanced electronics, increasing the strategic importance of reliable electricity infrastructure.

Energy infrastructure remains critical for mining growth

Industry experts view expanded transmission networks as essential to unlocking greater mining production across Central Africa. Reliable electricity remains one of the largest operational challenges for mines in both the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Zambia.

Although Trafigura's exit removes a major participant from the 2,000-megawatt project, other privately backed transmission initiatives are expected to continue supporting efforts to connect Angola's hydropower resources with regional industrial demand.

The future development of these projects will be closely watched by investors, governments and mining companies seeking to strengthen critical mineral supply chains.