ADDIS ABABA – The Ministry of Water and Energy (MoWE) of Ethiopia announced that off-grid energy solutions have positively impacted over 580,000 citizens across the nation. This milestone was shared by MoWE Minister Eng. Habtamu Itefa in a recent statement to the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA).
Minister Itefa emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to boost energy supply by integrating renewable sources to address the growing power demand. A significant focus of these efforts has been the expansion of off-grid energy technologies, particularly solar energy, targeting remote and rural areas.
“The ministry has been working tirelessly to enhance energy accessibility in rural regions through the deployment of solar energy solutions,” Habtamu noted. This initiative has received support from development partners such as the World Bank Group (WBG), which are keen to back energy sector advancements in Ethiopia. In addition to technological expansion, the MoWE has structured its sector and trained personnel to optimize solar energy utilization.
Ethiopia is rich in renewable energy resources, including water, solar, wind, and geothermal energy. Currently, over 92% of the country’s energy production is derived from hydropower, with the rest coming from wind and other sources. The nation boasts the potential to generate over 60,000 MW of electric power.
“Solar energy is emerging as a crucial alternative to meet the increasing electricity demands of rural and remote communities,” stated Minister Itefa. He highlighted the ongoing activities aimed at tapping into the country’s vast solar energy potential.
In addition to energy initiatives, the MoWE is also committed to improving access to potable water. Minister Itefa outlined plans to provide safe drinking water to 80 million people by the end of the current fiscal year. This goal involves adding over 5 million new beneficiaries to the 74.6 million people already served in the previous fiscal year.
As part of the broader water and sanitation improvement efforts, the Clean Ethiopia initiative aims to not only secure funding but also garner political commitment. This initiative is pivotal in enhancing the water and sanitation services, ultimately contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment.
Minister Itefa acknowledged the challenges faced by the water and sanitation sector in the past, but expressed optimism that the Clean Ethiopia initiative would significantly improve the sanitary conditions and environmental cleanliness in the country.
These combined efforts in expanding energy access and improving water and sanitation services reflect Ethiopia’s commitment to sustainable development and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens.
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