Hydro-Link Signs Pact to Build US$1.5 Billion Power Transmission Line Between Angola and DRC

New York–based energy investor HYDRO‑LINK signed a memorandum of understanding with the Angolan government and partnered with Swiss firm Mitrelli Group to develop a major electricity transmission project connecting Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The initiative will build a 1,150 km, 400 kV double‑circuit transmission line—supported by around 3,500 towers—linking Angola’s surplus hydropower capacity from projects like Laúca (and soon Caculo Cabaça) to the energy-deficient Copperbelt region of southeastern DRC. Scheduled for completion by 2029, the line will carry up to 1.2 GW of clean energy, powering both mining operations and urban communities along its route. In addition to HYDRO‑LINK and Mitrelli, a third MoU brings U.S. engineering firm Sargent & Lundy on board to provide independent engineering services. The project not only aims to address chronic power shortages in the DRC, boost local jobs and industrial zones, but also reflects a broader strategic push by the U.S. to support critical minerals value chains and sustainable infrastructure in Africa. 

In Angola, the transmission line will serve areas including Saurimo, Cuango, Lucapa, Luena, and various surrounding mines. On the DRC side, it will reach Dilolo, Kisenge, Kolwezi, and numerous mining operations vital to the country’s economy. Technically, the project features a 400 kV AC double-circuit design with quad conductors per phase, extending approximately 1,150 kilometers and supported by around 3,500 steel lattice towers. It will use high-capacity ACCC® carbon-core conductors, a U.S.-patented technology, along with polymer insulators likely supplied by Hubbell Power Systems. For integrated communications, the line includes 24-fiber OPGW (Optical Ground Wire), enabling both power grid data and commercial fiber leasing. Key infrastructure also includes air-insulated 400 kV substations with 15 kV–400 kV step-up transformers and 132 kV feeders, STATCOMs in both countries for voltage control and reactive power management, and a SCADA system that ensures full remote monitoring and grid automation via fiber-optic connections.