Ethiopia's electric grid is set for a major boost with a USD 500 million investment from the World Bank. The Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP) announced plans to build 14 new power distribution stations and lines, alongside renovations of existing power plants and distribution networks.

EEP CEO, Asheber Balcha, stressed the importance of these projects which are set to be completed in three years. The company aims to improve efficiency, address existing challenges, and increase access to electricity. Upgrading the transmission infrastructure is key, as power outages often stem from maintenance needs rather than generation limitations.

The CEO highlighted the need to periodically replace aging equipment within power plants, even if the plants themselves have a lifespan of 50-100 years. Additionally, Ethiopia is pushing forward with renewable energy sources, with the Koisha solar power project already 65% complete.

Renovation efforts are also underway, including the refurbishment of the Tekezie power plant. EEP is reinvesting revenue from foreign electricity sales into these projects.

Source: Addis Zemen