Ethiopia is prioritizing the use of its potential alternative energy sources, including solar power, according to Dr. Sultan Wali, State Minister for Water and Energy. His comments followed the signing of a new agreement between the Ministry of Water and Energy and the International Solar Alliance (ISA).
The partnership aims to launch solar mini-grid and solar park projects, facilitating financial and technological cooperation to boost power generation, irrigation, and drinking water supply.
Dr. Sultan emphasized that a reliable, sustainable, and affordable energy supply is vital for the country's development and prosperity. He noted that solar power plays a crucial role in this growth, and Ethiopia is actively collaborating with the ISA and other international partners to achieve its goals.
The ISA Director-General, Ashish Khanna, praised Ethiopia's successful efforts in expanding its international cooperation in renewable energy. He affirmed the alliance's commitment to supporting Ethiopia's ongoing efforts to expand its solar energy development across various sectors. The ISA will assist with solar technologies, institutional capacity building, and creating a favorable legal framework for renewable energy expansion.
The alliance's support in Ethiopia also extends to rural electrification, technology adoption, and training, including the construction of power lines to connect villages to the main grid, ENA learned.