Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP) announced that it was on track to complete five key infrastructure projects, including power transmission and distribution stations, within the current fiscal year.
In a statement, EEP's Chief Executive Officer, Ashebr Balcha, highlighted progress on several projects aimed at improving the country's energy supply. Among them is the 230 KV 2nd circuit of the Alamata-Kombolcha road, as well as distribution station projects in Bekoji and Debre Tabor. Additionally, the renovation and improvement of the Kotebe campus is underway, as is the restoration work at the Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam Coordination Office.
According to data provided by EEP, the Southern Grid Expansion and the Geda Special Economic Zone projects are also advancing, with the goal of reaching 75 percent completion of the 230 KV electricity transmission lines.
The CEO further noted the progress on Ethiopia's flagship energy initiatives. The Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam has reached 99.4 percent completion, the Koisha Power Generation Project is at 73.96 percent, and the Aisha Wind Power Project is at 95.58 percent.
In April this year, the Ministry of Water and Energy revealed that the government had crafted a ten-year development plan that prioritizes bolstering electricity generation capacity. This plan envisions a significant increase, from the current 4,478 megawatts to 19,900 megawatts, alongside an expansion in the consumer base, from 5.8 million to a projected 24.3 million.
To materialize this vision, a series of strategic projects and initiatives have been implemented, most notably the National Electrification Programme launched in 2017. This program aims to achieve a national electricity access rate of 65 percent by 2030. The plan leverages a two-pronged approach, utilizing the national power grid for the majority of the population and strategically deploying off-grid solutions in remote areas.
Source: Ethiopian News Agency
Additional Source: 2Merkato Archives
