Ethiopia has unveiled a landmark bi-directional smart meter solar project, paving way for widespread renewable energy adoption.
The innovative 100 kilowatt-peak (kWp) rooftop solar system, launched by Water and Energy Minister Habtamu Itefa, is set to revolutionize how Ethiopian families and institutions generate and consume electricity, serving as a model for future decentralized energy solutions.
Speaking at the inauguration, Minister Habtamu Itefa underscored Ethiopia's unwavering commitment to harnessing its vast renewable energy potential and modernizing its national grid. He highlighted the remarkable progress made in expanding off-grid electricity supply over the past nine months, which has seen over 10,000 households gain access to electricity through solar energy solutions.
The newly unveiled rooftop system, installed at the Ministry's headquarters, is equipped with advanced bi-directional smart meters. These cutting-edge devices facilitate the seamless flow of electricity in two directions: drawing power from the national grid when needed, and crucially, feeding surplus solar-generated electricity back into the grid.
"This project at our own headquarters sends a strong message of our intentions," Minister Habtamu stated. "Our collaboration with the International Solar Alliance greatly enhances the impact of this initiative, bringing worldwide expertise and common goals to our national energy plan."
The initiative is poised to significantly offset a portion of the Ministry's energy consumption with clean sources, providing a tangible example for future projects across both public and commercial sectors nationwide. Furthermore, Habtamu noted that this completed solar energy initiative serves as a blueprint for individuals aspiring to generate and utilize their own energy.
Water and Energy State Minister Sultan Wali elaborated on the growing popularity of solar systems in Ethiopia, particularly in remote areas. He highlighted their widespread implementation not only in residential settings but also in educational institutions and medical centers, significantly enhancing energy access in communities that have historically struggled with reliable power sources.
Wali also pointed to the prior successful application of solar energy for the preservation and cooling of fruits and vegetables in the industrial sectors of the Oromia and Sidama regions. This innovative use has not only maintained the quality and freshness of agricultural produce but has also showcased the immense potential of renewable energy in bolstering food security and supporting local economies.
Moreover, the State Minister emphasized the increasing adoption of solar pumps for irrigation purposes. "This shift towards renewable energy sources not only aims to improve crop yields but also to provide farmers with a more sustainable and cost-effective means of accessing water for their fields," Wali concluded, painting a promising picture for Ethiopia's renewable energy future, ENA reported.