A 100-kilowatt solar project has begun operation within the Ministry’s compound.

The Ministry of Water and Energy of Ethiopia, in collaboration with the International Solar Alliance (ISA), launched the operation of a newly constructed 100-kilowatt solar project within the Ministry’s premises. The project will generate power and supplement the energy supply of the compound.

The Honorable Minister of Water and Energy, Dr. Eng. Habtamu Itefa, stated that the institution is actively engaged in extensive work across three sectors. In the energy sector, the country has reached an installed capacity of 6.8 GW, he noted.

He further mentioned that around 10,000 community members benefited from solar energy. As a member of the International Solar Alliance, Ethiopia is using this project as a solar demonstration site. The Minister emphasized that this newly launched solar project should be considered a pilot initiative for broader implementation.

The Minister also explained that the solar project will contribute to the modernization of operational systems in the sectors of drinking water, energy, and water resource management.

He highlighted the importance of strengthening monitoring systems and developing operational manuals. He extended appreciation to the International Solar Alliance, which funded the project, and to all stakeholders who contributed during the implementation process.

The project, which cost $200,000 USD, is designed to feed power directly into the grid and is equipped with systems capable of efficiently managing energy flow.

Ethiopian Energy Portal noted that the pilot initiative is the first grid tied solar project in Ethiopia and it opens the door for rooftop, commercial and industrial scale solar development in the country. Along with the recent wholesale and retail commodity trade permission for foreign investors, solar adoption is likely to see a sunshine time in the country.