Inception Workshop for Ethiopia-Somalia Power Interconnections Feasibility Study
The Ethiopia-Somalia Interconnections project aims to establish a power transmission link between the two countries to facilitate power exchange and promote electricity markets in the region. There are two interconnections to be studied; northern (Jigjiga-Hargessa-Berbera) and southern (Negele-Dolo Ado-Mogadishu) interconnectors. The feasibility study, being conducted by the consortium of CESI and COLENCO, will determine the technical, economic, and financial viability of the investment. The study is a crucial step in assessing the project’s potential benefits and ensuring its successful implementation.
The workshop held in Addis Ababa from 10th to 12th July 2023, brought together experts from the clients – Ethiopian Electric Power, Somalia Ministry of Energy and Water Resources, and Somaliland Ministry of Energy and Minerals; as well as representatives from the World Bank, who are the project financiers. Officials from the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP) were also present. During the workshop, various aspects related to the feasibility study were discussed, including study methodology, work schedules, and the data and resource requirements that assure the proper undertaking of the study.
The expected impact of the Ethiopia-Somalia interconnections project includes:
- Providing transmission capacity for power exchange between Ethiopia, Somalia, and neighboring countries: This will enable the efficient sharing of power generation resources, leading to increased energy security in the region.
- Promoting electricity markets: By facilitating power exchange, the project will help create a regional electricity market that can foster economic growth and development in the region.
- Facilitating rural electrification and improving living standards: The project aims to extend electricity access to rural areas, contributing to an improvement in the standard of living for the population in these regions.
- Enhancing business and economic development in Somalia: The stable power supply to Somalia is expected to support business growth and overall social and economic development in the country.
- Supporting poverty reduction and socio-economic development: The availability of electricity for health, education, clean water, and communication infrastructure is vital for poverty reduction and overall socio-economic development in both Ethiopia and Somalia.
- Reducing carbon emissions and dependence on diesel power: By providing a reliable electricity supply, the project will help Somalia reduce its reliance on diesel power generation, thereby decreasing carbon emissions and contributing to environmental sustainability.
Overall, the Ethiopia-Somalia interconnection project holds the potential to bring significant socio-economic benefits to both countries and the region at large. The feasibility study will play a critical role in shaping the project’s future and determining its successful realization.
