-First ever rooftop system feeds clean energy back into nat’l grid
ADDIS ABABA — Ethiopia marked a major milestone in its renewable energy journey yesterday with the launch of its first grid-connected solar energy project.
The project is a pioneering rooftop installation that symbolizes the country’s growing commitment to clean and sustainable power.
The 100-kilowatt-peak (kWp) solar rooftop system, constructed atop the Ministry of Water and Energy’s (MoWE) parking area, was developed in partnership with the International Solar Alliance (ISA).
It is Ethiopia’s first bi-directional smart-metered solar installation, capable of supplying electricity to the Ministry’s operations while feeding any surplus energy directly into the national grid.
“This 200,000 USD project is a demonstration of what is possible,” said MoWE State Minister Eng. Sultan Welle (PhD). “It is not only powering the Ministry but also contributing energy to the nation—making it the first model of its kind for both public and private institutions.”
Sultan emphasized the strategic importance of solar energy, noting that it avoids the challenges of transboundary water or fuel resources. “Solar is clean, abundant, and conflict-free. It offers Ethiopia a reliable and independent path to energy security,” he said.
Ethiopia, blessed with near year-round sunshine and average temperatures exceeding 25°C, is exceptionally well-positioned to harness solar power. Sultan noted that with the country’s growing population and economic expansion, energy demand is set to soar—making solar a vital part of Ethiopia’s energy strategy.
To accelerate solar adoption, the government is also working on policy reforms to attract private sector investment, including incentives and updated regulatory frameworks. Sultan added that technological advancements have significantly lowered installation costs in recent years, making solar increasingly affordable and scalable.
MoWE Minister Eng. Habtamu Itefa (PhD) also hailed the project as a turning point in the country’s energy transformation. “This is not just a solar installation—it is a learning platform and a blueprint for replication,” he said. “It proves that institutions can become both producers and consumers of renewable energy, while also contributing to the national grid.”
Habtamu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding solar power infrastructure across the country, citing the need for diverse, sustainable energy sources to power Ethiopia’s future.
As Ethiopia continues to modernize its economy and infrastructure, the launch of this landmark solar project signals a clear shift toward energy independence, innovation, and climate-conscious development.
BY EYUEL KIFLU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 13 JUNE 2025
