Ethiopia has reported a significant increase in revenue from electric power exports to neighboring countries, with earnings surpassing 1 billion U.S. dollars over the span of 18 months. The Ministry of Water and Energy disclosed this achievement, highlighting Ethiopia's growing role as a regional energy powerhouse.
According to Water and Energy Minister Habtamu Itefa, Ethiopia has successfully supplied energy to neighboring nations such as Sudan, Djibouti, and Kenya. The substantial earnings from electric power exports underscore Ethiopia's emergence as a key player in regional integration efforts.
During the previous Ethiopian fiscal year, which concluded on July 7, 2023, Ethiopia witnessed a surge in demand for its electric power, with neighboring countries experiencing a 15-percent annual increase in consumption. Minister Itefa emphasized that Ethiopia's abundance of hydropower resources positions it as a reliable provider of clean and affordable electricity, aligning with environmental sustainability goals.
With approximately 93 percent of its electric energy sourced from hydropower, Ethiopia is well-equipped to expand its energy export initiatives further. Plans are underway to extend electric energy exports to South Sudan, demonstrating Ethiopia's commitment to bolstering regional economic ties.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has articulated Ethiopia's broader vision of economic integration within the East African region and beyond through investments in electricity infrastructure. The ongoing development of hydroelectric power projects, including the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), exemplifies Ethiopia's dedication to advancing its energy export ambitions.
Once operational, the GERD is projected to generate over 6,000 megawatts of electricity, contributing significantly to Ethiopia's energy export capacity and regional economic growth.
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