The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is scheduled for its grand opening on the first day of the Ethiopian new year, Meskerem 1, which corresponds to September 11, 2025 on the Gregorian calendar. The announcement was made by Ashebir Balcha, the CEO of Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP).
This monumental project, a symbol of Ethiopia's ambition to become a powerhouse in renewable energy, marks a new beginning not only for the country but for the entire region. The inauguration is a fitting way to celebrate the new year, known as Enkutatash, which symbolizes renewal and hope.
Over the past six years, EEP has successfully constructed 20 power plants, significantly enhancing the nations energy infrastructure. The GERD, designed to produce an impressive 5,115 megawattsof power once fully operational, will be a cornerstone of this effort.
CEO Ashebir also detailed that in addition to the GERD, four other power facilities are currently under construction. Among them, the Koysha power plant is 71%complete, and the Assela wind power plant is also slated for commissioning in 2021. The Aisha wind power plant is on track to finish with a construction progress of 85%, promising to generate 120 megawatts.
Ethiopia's energy production capabilities have already exceeded projections. Initial plans estimated a capacity of 25,423 gigawatt hoursin the 2017 budget year, yet the output surged to 29,480 gigawatt hours. Impressively, domestic energy sales have constituted 93%of total sales, whereas neighboring countries Kenya and Djibouti account for the remaining 7%. This success has translated to a revenue of 75.4 billion birrfrom electricity sales, underscoring the vital role of energy exports in boosting Ethiopia's economy.
While celebrating these achievements, EEP is not without its challenges. The organization is actively working to mitigate accumulated debts and fund projects using its own resources. Security concerns, infrastructure theft, and the difficulties associated with repairing damaged transmission lines pose significant obstacles, as do issues related to border enforcement and compensation payments.
As the nation prepares for the grand opening of the GERD and the coming of the new year, there remains a palpable sense of optimism. The completion of this project, along with the continued development of additional energy initiatives, is expected to solidify Ethiopias position as a key energy supplier in the region, heralding a new era of energy independence and economic growth.
