ETHIOPIA’S Ministry of Water and Energy has revealed that the country’s electric power exports to neighbouring nations have exceeded $1bn within a span of 18 months, marking a significant milestone in its regional energy endeavours.
Minister Habtamu Itefa, speaking to state-run Ethiopian News Agency, lauded Ethiopia’s success in supplying energy to Sudan, Djibouti, and Kenya, emphasising the nation’s pivotal role in regional energy dynamics. He stated, ‘This underscores the nation’s burgeoning role as a regional energy powerhouse, catalysing regional integration.’
The reported earnings, spanning up to the conclusion of the previous Ethiopian fiscal year on July 7, 2023, reflect a robust demand for Ethiopia’s electric power among neighbouring countries. Minister Itefa highlighted a notable 15 percent annual surge in consumption during the period, indicating the region’s increasing reliance on Ethiopia’s energy resources.
He further emphasised Ethiopia’s commitment to providing clean and affordable electricity, noting that about 93 percent of the country’s electric energy is sourced from hydropower. Minister Itefa also unveiled plans to expand electric energy exports to South Sudan, signalling Ethiopia’s intention to bolster its regional influence in the energy sector.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has articulated that Ethiopia’s pursuit of enhancing its energy export capacity aligns with broader objectives of economically integrating the East African region and beyond through electricity infrastructure.
‘As part of our ambition, Ethiopia is currently undertaking different hydroelectric power projects, including the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD),’ Minister Itefa stated. He added, ‘The country expects GERD to generate more than 6,000 megawatts of electricity once it’s fully operational.’
The revelation underscores Ethiopia’s ascendancy in the regional energy landscape, with its strategic investments poised to play a vital role in advancing regional integration and fostering economic development across borders.