The Gilgel Gibe III hydro-power project will commence operation at the beginning of the coming Ethiopian New Year, the Ministry of Water, Irrigation and Energy said.

In an exclusive interview with Ethiopian News Agency, the Minister Alemayehu Tegenu said 80 percent of the construction of the project has so far been finalized. He said the project, which has a capacity to generate 1,870mw electric power will commence operation in September 2007, Ethiopian Calender.

The installation of Ethiopia-Kenya power transmission line will be finalized in the coming two years, connecting Kenya to Ethiopia's power grid, according to the Minister. In the first phase Ethiopia will export 400mw power, he said, adding, currently the Kenya town of Moyale is getting power from Ethiopia.

Source: Ethiopian News Agency