Electricity in Ethiopia in 2022

In 2022, Ethiopia's electricity consumption is primarily derived from low-carbon sources, with hydropower making a significant contribution. Specifically, the nation generated about 15 TWh of electricity from low-carbon sources, out of which a substantial portion, around 15 TWh, was provided by hydropower alone. This indicates that more than half of Ethiopia’s electricity is sourced from clean energy, showcasing its commitment to low-carbon power generation. However, despite this positive inclination towards low-carbon energy, Ethiopia's electricity generation per capita remains significantly below the global average of 3638 watts per person. This low level of electricity generation can lead to challenges such as limited access to electricity, hampering economic growth and development, and potentially slowing down societal advancements.

Suggestions

To bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, Ethiopia can look to successful examples from other countries that have expanded their clean energy portfolio. For instance, India has leveraged both wind and solar energy effectively, generating around 91 TWh and 128 TWh, respectively. Similarly, Brazil has harnessed wind power efficiently, producing 102 TWh of electricity. These countries demonstrate that diversifying low-carbon energy sources, especially in wind and solar, can significantly enhance electricity generation. By adopting advanced technologies and fostering investment in wind and solar power, Ethiopia can enhance its capacity for clean electricity, contribute to global climate goals, and improve domestic energy security.

History

The history of Ethiopia’s low-carbon electricity generation reveals a steadfast progression, particularly in hydropower over the years. From the early 2000s, hydropower production saw incremental increases, with notable expansions in the 2010s, where year-on-year growth often reached or exceeded 1 TWh. In 2015, wind energy also contributed to the mix, though its success varied, highlighted by a minor setback in 2017 but managing a recovery in 2018. While hydropower experienced substantial growth in recent years, the expansion of wind energy faced some fluctuations. Moving forward, Ethiopia can continue to build upon its long-term commitment to hydropower, while simultaneously investing in other low-carbon technologies such as wind and solar to ensure a balanced and resilient energy mix.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources