Discover the Mekele Solar PV Project, Ethiopia’s 100MW solar energy initiative aimed at generating 260GWh annually. Learn about its investment, impact, and future prospects.

Ethiopia continues to embrace clean energy solutions, and the Mekele Solar PV Project is a key part of this journey. Located in the Tigray Regional State, this 100MW solar power project is set to produce 260GWh of energy annually, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and advancing Ethiopia’s sustainable energy goals.

With an estimated cost of $105.58 million, the project will operate under a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model for 20 years. However, due to high social impact at the selected site, an alternative location is currently under investigation.

Overview of the Mekele Solar PV Project

Project Name	Mekele Solar PV Project
Contracting Authority	Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP), Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
Capacity	100MW (AC)
Annual Energy Output	260GWh
Total Investment	$105.58 million
Procurement Mode	Competitive Bidding
PPP Model	BOT (Build-Operate-Transfer) – DBFOM
Operational Duration	20 years
Location	Tigray Regional State, Ethiopia
Project Status	Alternative site under investigation

Why the Mekele Solar PV Project Matters

1. Expanding Ethiopia’s Renewable Energy Capacity

Ethiopia is rapidly shifting towards renewable energy sources. The Mekele Solar PV Project will play a significant role in increasing solar energy capacity and reducing dependency on hydropower and fossil fuels.

2. Economic & Social Benefits

• Job Creation: The project will generate employment opportunities in construction, operation, and maintenance.
• Energy Security: 260GWh of electricity per year will help power homes, industries, and businesses.
• Sustainability: The project will cut carbon emissions, supporting Ethiopia’s climate resilience strategy.

3. Public-Private Partnership (PPP) for Efficiency

The Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) structure ensures private sector investment in Ethiopia’s energy sector while allowing for technology transfer and efficient project execution.

Challenges & Current Status

The original project site posed high social impact risks, leading to an alternative site investigation. Once a new site is finalized, the project will move forward, reinforcing Ethiopia’s commitment to solar energy expansion.

FAQs About the Mekele Solar PV Project

1. What is the total capacity of the Mekele Solar PV Project?

The project will generate 100MW (AC) of solar power.

2. How much energy will it produce annually?

It is expected to produce 260GWh per year.

3. What is the total cost of the project?

The estimated investment is $105.58 million.

4. What is the current status of the project?

The original site had high social impact, so an alternative location is being investigated before proceeding.

5. What is the partnership structure?

The project follows a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model, where the private sector will develop, finance, operate, and maintain the plant for 20 years before transferring it to the Ethiopian government.

6. How will the project benefit Ethiopia?

The project will:
✔ Increase solar energy generation
✔ Enhance energy security
✔ Support economic development
✔ Reduce carbon emissions

The Mekele Solar PV Project is a crucial part of Ethiopia’s renewable energy expansion. While alternative site selection is ongoing, its 100MW capacity, $105.58 million investment, and PPP structure ensure a strong foundation for sustainable energy growth.