Ethiopia plans to export approximately 100 megawatts of electricity to Tanzania via Kenya as part of its ambitious energy sector expansion goals.
Ethiopia aims to strengthen energy infrastructure in East Africa and boost regional cooperation through this project.
Power Transmission Line and Cooperation Agreements
The electricity will be generated in Ethiopia’s southern Sodo region, transmitted to Kenya’s Suswa station, and then delivered to Arusha in northern Tanzania. Kenya Electricity Transmission Co. Managing Director John Mativo explained that the plan will be executed through agreements between Ethiopia and Tanzania, as well as between Kenya and Tanzania.
Growth in Energy Exports
Ethiopia’s electricity exports have steadily increased in recent years. According to Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP), energy exports reached $140 million in the 2016 fiscal year, a 16% rise compared to the previous year. This growth is attributed to emerging sectors like data mining, which have significantly driven up energy demand.
EEP CEO Ashebir Balcha noted that electricity exports make up a significant portion of Ethiopia’s total revenue, with data mining alone contributing $27 million.
Project Significance
This initiative underscores Ethiopia’s ambition to expand its regional energy network and strengthen economic ties with neighboring countries. It also highlights Ethiopia’s capacity in the energy sector, contributing to sustainable energy goals in East Africa.
Ethiopia’s 2016 fiscal year ended on July 7, 2024, but this new project holds the potential to further enhance energy exports in the coming years.
