Metema Solar PV Project: Advancing Ethiopia’s Renewable Energy Future

Discover the Metema Solar PV Project, a 125MW solar energy initiative in Ethiopia’s Amhara region. Learn about its investment, capacity, and development progress.

As Ethiopia accelerates its renewable energy transition, the Metema Solar PV Project emerges as a key initiative. Located in Amhara Regional State, this 125MW solar power plant will harness Ethiopia’s solar potential, supporting energy security and sustainability.

Spanning 236 hectares, the project involves the construction of a new high-voltage transmission line to connect with the existing substation in Metema. With a projected investment of $150 million, the project follows a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model, ensuring efficient execution through private sector participation.

Overview of the Metema Solar PV Project

Project NameMetema Solar PV Project
Contracting AuthorityEthiopian Electric Power (EEP)
Capacity125MW (AC)
Land Area236 hectares
Total Investment$150 million
Procurement ModeCompetitive Bidding
PPP ModelBOT (Build-Operate-Transfer) – DBFOM
Operational Duration20 years
LocationMetema, Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia
Project StatusSite under investigation

Why the Metema Solar PV Project Matters

1. Strengthening Ethiopia’s Renewable Energy Mix

The 125MW capacity of the project will contribute to Ethiopia’s strategy to expand its solar energy capacity, reducing dependency on hydropower and fossil fuels.

2. Economic and Environmental Benefits

  • Job Creation: The project will create employment opportunities in construction, operation, and maintenance.
  • Enhanced Power Supply: More electricity will be available for households, businesses, and industries.
  • Carbon Emission Reduction: A shift to solar power supports Ethiopia’s climate goals and reduces reliance on polluting energy sources.

3. Public-Private Partnership (PPP) for Efficient Execution

The BOT model ensures:
Private sector investment and expertise
Efficient energy production and infrastructure development
Smooth transfer of operations to the government after 20 years

Current Status and Next Steps

The project site is currently under investigation before proceeding to the next stage of development. Once confirmed, the bidding and implementation process will follow.

FAQs About the Metema Solar PV Project

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

The project will generate 125MW (AC) of solar power.

2. How much land does the project cover?

The solar plant will be installed on 236 hectares.

3. What is the estimated investment for the project?

The total cost of the project is $150 million.

4. How will the electricity be transmitted?

A new high-voltage (HV) transmission line will connect the plant to the existing substation in Metema.

5. What is the current status of the project?

The site is under investigation, and once confirmed, the project will move forward.

6. What are the main benefits of this project?

The project will:
Expand Ethiopia’s solar energy capacity
Create jobs and boost the economy
Improve electricity access and reliability
Reduce carbon emissions and support climate goals

Metema Solar PV Project: Advancing Ethiopia’s Renewable Energy Future

The Metema Solar PV Project is a crucial step in Ethiopia’s renewable energy expansion. With 125MW capacity, $150 million investment, and a strong PPP framework, it will significantly contribute to energy access, sustainability, and economic growth.