Ethiopia is to begin exporting renewable energy to neighboring countries by 2018 as part of a cross border endeavor to meet regional energy demand and limit increases in climate-changing emissions, Reuters reported.

The Eastern African Power Pool (EAPP) initiative plans to create or broaden clean energy transmission lines in various countries in Africa. According to the plan, Ethiopia would be a bigger regional power provider.

Currently, Ethiopia exports power to Kenya, Sudan and Djibouti, yet has contracted with Tanzania, Rwanda, South Sudan and Yemen to provide power, specifically from hydropower.

The new USD 1.8 billion Gilgel Gibe 3 dam on the Omo River commences power production in June.

Source: Reuters