Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania are making significant strides in improving energy cooperation through a new regional power partnership.
This collaboration will boost electricity trade in East Africa, enabling Ethiopia to export 100 megawatts of electricity to Tanzania using Kenya’s transmission network.
The agreement marks a crucial step forward for cross-border energy trade between the three countries and highlights the growing regional power partnership in East Africa.
The electricity will be transmitted from Ethiopia’s Wolaita Sodo facility through Kenya’s Suswa substation and then on to northern Tanzania.
The move is expected to help tackle power shortages in Tanzania, while allowing Ethiopia to maximize its renewable energy resources, particularly hydropower.
The Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP) has indicated that the supply amount might be adjusted as discussions with Tanzania continue.
Kenya and Tanzania have already agreed to use high-voltage transmission lines for this ambitious project, though final approval from Kenya’s regulatory authorities is still pending.
Once the green light is given, the electricity trade can begin. This arrangement not only improves energy access but also strengthens ties between Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania, reflecting their shared commitment to improving energy security and cross-border electricity trade in East Africa.
For Ethiopia, the deal represents a significant step in its aim to become a major energy hub in the region by fully utilizing its renewable energy resources.
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a flagship project, plays a key role in supporting this vision.
By exporting electricity, Ethiopia can generate revenue while helping its neighboring countries meet their energy needs.
For Tanzania, the deal means more reliable power, providing additional capacity to support the country’s growing industries.
This agreement aligns with the goals of the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP), an organization that promotes energy security and cross-border electricity trade among member countries.
HAVE YOU READ?
Kenya Power’s Sh14 Billion Budget Breach Raises Accountability Concerns
Since its creation, the EAPP has been pushing for stronger regional cooperation, and this partnership is a testament to that progress.
The deal shows how East African nations are working together to solve shared energy problems, particularly in light of frequent power outages and the lack of sufficient electricity to fuel their economies.
By setting up a dependable electricity trade route, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania can better meet their energy demands and create more opportunities for businesses and industries that rely on a stable power supply.
Furthermore, this collaboration plays a significant role in addressing climate change in East Africa. By focusing on renewable energy sources like hydropower, these countries can reduce their reliance on fossil fuels, lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
This approach not only supports global climate goals but also helps local communities become more resilient to climate-related challenges.
By working together to use their shared resources, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania are building a stronger, more sustainable future for their people.
This partnership also contributes to global efforts to fight climate change, making it a model for energy cooperation across the region.
Looking ahead, this agreement could open the door to more collaborations across various sectors, fostering greater integration and unity within East Africa.
The successful implementation of this electricity trade arrangement marks a milestone in East Africa’s power partnership and demonstrates how regional cooperation can lead to improved energy access, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.
