Ethiopia has finalised the installation of power interconnection lines to Sudan, as the country builds on its resolve to become a major regional electric power exporter.
The Ethiopian Electric and Power Corporation (EEPCo) announced the completion of the interconnecting lines, which cover 296 kilometres and have a 230 Kilovolt capacity, which makes Sudan the second country to benefit from Ethiopia’s power exports.
Ethiopia began power supply to Djibouti three years ago, earning the country US$1.5 million a month from exports.
The corporation it had invested US$41 million in the interconnection lines with funding obtained from the World Bank. Iranian and Bosnian experts were the lead constructors in the project.
The transmission lines will run between the Ethiopian towns of Bahir-Dar and Metema and up to the border with Sudan to connect the countries’ grids.
Sudan is expected to replace its domestic thermal generation with surplus hydropower from Ethiopia, and reduce its greenhouse gas emissions.
“This increased access to electricity is part of both countries’ poverty reduction strategies and will realise benefits such as lighting of schools and homes, improved access to social services, and greater opportunities for business development,” World Bank said.
“The Project is also being implemented in accordance with World Bank environmental and social standards.”
The bank said that the project represents an important step in a broader power trade agenda for the region, where interconnections with Djibouti, Kenya, Tanzania, South Sudan, Somalia, and Yemen are being planned.
“The project also will invest in Institutional strengthening and capacity building to improve the skills of electricity company staff in Ethiopia in implementing and operating the transmission line, thereby supporting Ethiopia’s ability to participate intensively in the development of a broader regional power market,” added the bank.
Ethiopia is currently undertaking multibillion dollar investments on a number of green energy projects that will see the country become one of Africa’s leading power exporters to neighbouring countries.
South Sudan and Kenya, who have already signed agreements with Ethiopia will soon benefit from Ethiopia’s power export strategy.
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