Ethiopia stands at the forefront of a transformative clean energy transition, driven by its ambitious vision for sustainable development and environmental resilience. With abundant renewable resources, including hydroelectric power, wind, and solar energy, the country aims to harness these assets to meet its growing energy demands while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The transition does not only seek to bolster energy security and economic growth but also to enhance the livelihoods of millions. As Ethiopia embarks on this journey, it faces both challenges and opportunities, navigating the complexities of infrastructure development, investment, and policy alignment. The commitment to a green economy reflects Ethiopia’s dedication to combating climate change and promoting equitable access to energy for all its citizens.
According to the Ministry of Water and Energy data efforts to enhance the health of rural communities in Ethiopia are gaining momentum through the promotion of energy-saving and clean cooking technologies. With the distribution of 20.5 million clean cooking technologies, stakeholders are working diligently to address energy equity and health concerns. This initiative encompasses a range of strategies, including solar energy development, biomass energy utilization, and the introduction of modern cooking stoves.
The reliance on traditional stoves, which often utilize biomass like firewood and animal dung, poses significant health risks. Smoke inhalation from these stoves can lead to respiratory diseases and other health complications. In response, the local authorities are actively replacing these outdated cooking methods with cleaner alternatives. By doing so, they aim to not only improve public health but also promote a sustainable lifestyle among rural populations.
Amhara State Water and Energy Bureau Vice Head, Tilahun Shimeles, emphasized the multifaceted benefits of these efforts. “Making clean cooking energy technologies accessible will improve citizens’ health and provide economic benefits, while also contributing to climate change mitigation,” he stated. As to him, insights reflect a broader understanding of the interconnectedness between health, energy consumption, and environmental sustainability.
Looking ahead, the Ethiopian government has ambitious plans to enhance access to clean cooking technologies further. The ministry of water and energy try to achieving to the goal is to distribute 31.5 million modern cooking technologies and construct 150 small rivers for power generation up to 2030. These initiatives are designed to address the energy needs of the rural community while ensuring environmental protection.
Birhanu Woldu, Executive Director of Rural Energy Technology Development and Transition at the Ministry of Water and Energy, explains the past inefficiencies associated with traditional cooking methods as follows: “The cooking energy technologies previously used wasted a significant amount of energy. Our current efforts aim to provide modern stoves that not only protect health but drastically reduce energy waste”
He stated that an essential component of the initiative is awareness-raising. Local communities are being educated on the benefits of clean cooking technologies and energy conservation practices. The transition to cleaner energy sources is not just about providing new technologies; it also involves fostering a culture of sustainability and responsibility toward natural resources, he added.
The Director of Alternative Energy Development and Transition at the Mining and Energy Bureau in the Central Ethiopia region, Teketel Mathewos, highlighted the significance of community engagement. “Our work is focused on making clean cooking stove technologies available, which will not only save forests but also empower rural communities,” he stated. This grassroots approach ensures that the benefits of these technologies reach those who need them most.
The impact of clean cooking technologies extends beyond health benefits; it also encompasses economic advantages. By reducing the reliance on traditional biomass, families can save money and time previously spent on fuel collection. Moreover, the health improvements resulting from cleaner air quality can lead to reduced healthcare costs and increased productivity.
Birhanu further stated, the construction of small river power plants is a significant step toward sustainable energy generation. These projects, funded by both federal and regional budgets, aim to harness local water resources for electricity production. Currently, three small river power plants are underway, with one nearing completion. The initiative will not only provide clean energy but also create job opportunities in rural areas, he said.
In addition to biomass and river based energy solutions, he emphasized solar energy is also being harnessed to enhance energy access in rural communities. Since 2023, 14 solar mini-grids have been established to ensure equitable energy distribution, he mentioned. The ongoing efforts include the development of a digital application designed to facilitate solar energy distribution, thereby increasing energy consumption in remote areas.
Through fostering an environment that encourages investment and innovation, Ethiopia aims to create a robust framework for sustainable energy development. Irrigation One of the most significant aspects is the transition of solar energy to enhance energy access for Ethiopia’s rural population. Approximately 80% of the Ethiopian population resides in rural areas, where access to electricity remains a challenge.
Project Manager at Ethiopian Solar Energy Association Development, Yemisirach Sisay, emphasized the association is actively working to create a conducive environment for solar energy investment. Policy frameworks, regulatory reforms, and incentives are being introduced to attract solar private companies in the renewable energy sector.
She said Public-private partnerships are also becoming increasingly important, as they can leverage resources and expertise to accelerate the deployment of solar technologies. Through providing reliable and sustainable energy solutions, solar power can enhance productivity and improve living standards in these communities.
Birhanu stated that the rural community is currently relying on diesel-powered irrigation for their farms. To address the challenges of power interruptions, efforts are underway to encourage private investors to expand the use of solar energy. The country aims to ensure that farmers can produce consistently without the disruptions caused by traditional energy sources, he noted.
She said that the Solar Association is actively collaborating with various stakeholders to enhance public access to solar energy. Their efforts include advocating for the exemption of imported solar materials from taxes, as well as offering tax grace periods and other incentives to promote investment in solar infrastructure.
“We are working to enhance the availability of the solar companies under the solar energy association development for achieving sustainable energy development among the country through resolving the challenges” she noted.
Birhanu further stated that private investors are forming joint ventures with foreign partners to develop mini-grid systems. These partnerships are expected to significantly improve energy access in rural areas, fostering sustainable growth and enhancing agricultural productivity while reducing reliance on fossil fuels
Through leveraging solar energy, rural communities can achieve greater energy independence and reliability, especially in areas far from traditional power generation lines. This diversification of energy sources is crucial for building resilient communities that can withstand economic or environmental challenges.
The initiatives underway in Ethiopia to promote clean cooking energy technologies and sustainable practices represent a critical step toward improving public health, protecting the environment, and fostering economic growth in rural communities. With ambitious plans for the future, including extensive distribution of modern cooking technologies and the construction of renewable energy sources, Ethiopia is on a path toward a healthier, more sustainable future.
BY FIKADU BELAY
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD WEDNESDAY 2 OCTOBER 2024
