Ethiopian Electric Utility has commissioned two solar energy installations, collectively generating 400 kW of power, with the primary objective of delivering dependable electricity to remote and underserved communities in the Afar and Gambella regional states. The projects, situated in Metehara (Afar) and Bada (Gambella), are now fully operational and ready to provide full service. Executed by Chinese firms CET and NR Consortium, the projects harness advanced off-grid solar technology to remote communities. The Bada plant in Gambella comprises 558-watt solar panels and a generator capable of storing up to 250 kW through 600 battery cells. The Metehara installation in Afar incorporates 342 panels and a backup generator with a 150kW storage capacity, supported by 400 battery cells. Beyond addressing energy scarcity, these projects are poised to catalyze socioeconomic transformation. They facilitate the creation of employment, improve access to essential services such as education, healthcare, and sanitation, and stimulate local economic activity by powering enterprises, market hubs, hospitality venues, retail outlets, and various service providers. The combined cost of the two installations amounts to approximately 960,000 dollars and 13.34 million Br, jointly financed by the African Development Bank and the Government of Ethiopia. To date, seven of the envisaged 25 solar energy projects have already commenced operations in the Somali, Oromia, South, and South-West Ethiopia regional states.
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