Addis Ababa:Ethiopia's strategic use of renewable energy and self-funded infrastructure development is drawing attention from sustainability-focused businesses and inspiring other African countries, according to ESG360 CEO and Managing Director Bethlehem Hailu.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, during the 36th African Hydro Symposium in Addis Ababa, Bethlehem emphasized the significance of Ethiopia's hydropower projects, particularly the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), in advancing climate action by reducing carbon emissions through clean electricity generation.
Bethlehem explained that Ethiopia's reliance on hydropower for electricity supply reduces dependence on carbon-intensive energy sources, making the nation appealing to companies aiming to lower their environmental impact and achieve sustainability goals. She also highlighted Ethiopia's tree-planting initiatives and investment in human capital as vital elements of its sustainability strategy.
The "GERD model" of domestic financing is seen as a transformative example for other African countries, encouraging them to explore internal funding options instead of relying on international aid. Lioko Sitali, Director of Transmission Operations and Trade at ZESCO Limited, noted that Ethiopia's experience with GERD provides valuable lessons for similar energy infrastructure projects in Africa.
The four-day symposium, themed "Climate-Resilient Hydropower and Water-Energy Security in Africa," gathers various stakeholders to discuss sustainable hydropower development and the continent's energy security.
