Ethiopia targets Boosting Energy Exports amid Growing Power Generation Capacity

The Ministry of Water and Energy (MoE) affirmed Ethiopia’s unwavering commitment to increasing energy exports as the nation experiences significant growth in its power generation capacity. MoE Minister, Eng. Habtamu Itefa, highlighted that Ethiopia’s power export capacity has seen a commendable 15% increase over the past five years.

Out of the impressive 5.42 gigawatt power generation capacity achieved last fiscal year, approximately 1.7 gigawatt hours have been successfully exported to neighboring countries, including Kenya, Djibouti, and Sudan, meeting their escalating demands for energy supply.
Eng. Habtamu acknowledged the challenges posed by the recent drought in Ethiopia and the region, emphasizing the government’s dedicated efforts to maintain water levels in reservoirs to ensure uninterrupted power generation.
With abundant water potential for hydroelectric, geothermal, and wind power, Ethiopia stands out as a country with higher potential for electricity generation. The minister highlighted the strategic geographical positioning and invested in electrical wiring connecting Ethiopia with neighboring countries, enhancing accessibility.
Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP) reported a significant milestone, announcing the generation of 404 megawatts of electricity from wind power.
EEP Corporate Communications Director Moges Mekonen emphasized the reliability and cost-effectiveness of wind power, noting its contribution to sustainable economic growth.
A feasibility study for 18 wind power projects, with a combined capacity of 2,700 megawatts, has been completed, with locations such as Gode, Kabribeyah, Tulu Guled, and Adigala identified for implementation.
Encouraged by the success in renewable energy, the Ethiopian government is intensifying efforts to generate more power in the current fiscal year.
Ethiopia aims to harness its capacity to produce 1.3 gigawatts from wind, 45,000 MW from hydropower, and 10,000 MW from geothermal sources.
The minister extended a call to developmental partners and neighboring countries to support Ethiopia’s ongoing progress in power generation development, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to meeting the increasing energy demands of its neighbors.