Ethiopia has vast hydro-power and promising geothermal energy resources. Its hydro-power potential has been estimated at about 650
billion kwh/a. In view of the
topographic features of the country, at least 20 to 25 percent of this potential can be economically developed.
To date, the aggregate electricity generated is a mere 1.2 billion
kwh/a, which is much less than one percent of the potential. The present regional distribution system
of electric service is undertaken through the Inter-Connected System (ICS). The main industrial towns are all
connected into this national grid. Almost the entire ICS
capability is provided by the five hydro-electric power plants at Fincha, Koka, Awash II, Awash III and Melka Wakena. A sixth hydropower plant at Gilgel Gibe,
with an installed capacity of 180 mw, is scheduled to become operational in 1998. Electric energy is supplied at 380/220 volts, 50 cycles AC; the transmission
facilities are 230 kv, 132 kv, 66 kv, 45 kv, 15 kv, 5.5 kv and 3.2 kv lines
Electricity in Ethiopia, being mostly hydro-power, is quite cheap and adequately available. It is supplied by the Ethiopian Electric
Light and Power Authority
(EELPA). No difficulties are anticipated in meeting electric power requirements for a greatly expanded program of industrial development. |
