Addis Ababa – Ethiopia’s Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), Africa’s largest hydroelectric project, has activated its fifth turbine (Unit 6), marking a significant step in the nation’s hydropower ambitions. The turbine, rated at 400 MW, is now generating 401.26 MW—exceeding its capacity at 100.32% efficiency—following successful pre-commissioning tests. With a total planned capacity of 5 GW across 11 turbines, the $4 billion dam is advancing toward full operation, and enhancing Ethiopia’s energy security and economic prospects.
The Ethiopian Electric Power Corporation reported that Unit 6’s performance reflects optimized engineering and seamless integration into the national grid. Units 7 and 8 are already operational, while Unit 5 is expected to come online on completion of its final commissioning phase. The dam, located on the Blue Nile, has now reached a milestone that edges it closer to its ultimate goal of powering Ethiopia and potentially exporting energy to neighbors.
Ethiopian officials see GERD as a linchpin in the nation’s long-term energy strategy. Once fully operational, the dam’s 5 GW capacity is projected to address chronic power shortages, drive industrial and agricultural growth, and bolster regional energy cooperation. The project, self-funded for $4 billion, underscores Ethiopia’s determination to harness its vast hydropower potential.
RELATED NEWS
Lobito Corridor Project Advances with Key Investments and Agreements at UN Assembly
At the sidelines of the 79th UN General Assembly, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken led a high-level roundtable to...
IFC Raises Record $2 Billion in Social Bond to Bolster Emerging Markets
Washington, D.C., January 15, 2025 – The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a World Bank Group entity, has issued a landmark...
ADVERTISEMENT
