Ethiopia Determined to Strengthen Regional Energy Connectivity, Says EEP CEO

Accra: Ethiopia will continue to strengthen its efforts to strengthen regional energy connectivity, Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP) CEO Ashebir Balcha said.According to Ethiopian News Agency, the construction of projects that ensure Ethiopia's development and prosperity are in progress. The CEO told ENA that Ethiopia has given special attention toward developing renewable energy. Over the past years, 3 major projects, including the Grand Renaissance Dam, have been completed and have become operational, he added. The CEO noted that Ethiopia's extensive work in renewable energy development has enabled it to be among the leading countries in the sector.He also explained that the electricity generated by Ethiopia comes entirely from renewable and clean energy. Ashebir further stated that Ethiopia is working at the forefront of the East African Energy Connectivity Initiative and will continue to strengthen its efforts to enhance regional energy connectivity. He also revealed that, in addition to Djibouti, Sudan , and Kenya, to which Ethiopia supplies power, an attempt is being made to sell power to Tanzania. Moreover, studies are being conducted to connect power with other countries.The CEO said that Ethiopia exports less than ten percent of its energy to foreign countries. Thus, efforts are underway to prioritize renewable energy by integrating domestic and foreign energy. The construction of the Koysha Power Generation Project, which has a huge generation capacity, is underway, and efforts are being made to complete it quickly and get it operational. In addition, 16 power transmission and distribution station projects are under construction.