Ethiopia and Kenya have joined forces to address their electricity challenges by constructing a major transmission line known as the Ethiopia-Kenya Electricity Highway. This innovative initiative allows both countries to store and share renewable energy based on demand, ensuring that when one nation experiences a deficit, electricity from the other can be seamlessly transferred, thereby supporting their national grids.
In Ethiopia, the renewable energy sector is robust, with the country generating electricity from sustainable sources, bolstered by the presence of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, Africa’s largest hydroelectric power plant. Meanwhile, Kenya derives 90% of its electricity from renewable sources, highlighted by one of the largest geothermal power facilities located in the Olkaria Area. Despite the inherent challenges of relying solely on renewable energy, the idea of inter-country power transfer is proving to be both innovative and practical.
The electricity highway, officially inaugurated in 2023, spans 650 miles of transmission lines and represents a decade-long effort with an investment of around $1.2 billion. This system has already proven beneficial, with Ethiopia supplying approximately 200 megawatts of power daily to Kenya during periods of high demand, effectively reducing the likelihood of blackouts in the region.
Furthermore, the project is an integral part of a larger vision under the Eastern African Power Pool, a coalition of 13 countries working together to address increasing electricity needs and ensure backup supplies. Both Ethiopia and Kenya have seen significant rises in electricity consumption over recent decades, and while millions across East Africa still lack access to reliable power, initiatives like the Ethiopia-Kenya Electricity Highway bring the region a step closer to achieving universal electricity access by 2030, as targeted by the United Nations.
6 Comments
Matzomaster
“This collaboration will likely serve as a model for other regions. Inter-country power sharing is a smart strategy to mitigate renewable energy challenges.”
Karamba
“The idea of an ‘electricity highway’ is impressive on paper, but the region still struggles with basic grid reliability. This feels more like a PR stunt than a real solution.”
Matzomaster
“A decade-long effort culminating in a 650-mile connection shows remarkable dedication. Kudos to both countries for investing in a greener future!”
Karamba
“By sharing power, Ethiopia and Kenya are showing that collaboration yields better results than isolated efforts. This is a solid step toward energy resilience!”
Matzomaster
“Investing in renewable energy infrastructure is the future. This project not only helps today but also paves the way for Africa’s sustainable development.”
Eugene Alta
“While the headline sounds innovative, the project overlooks the economic disparities between rural and urban areas. It might not benefit the majority who remain off-grid.”