Ethiopia uninterruptible power supply models are complete

In addition, previous studies that attempted to assess the future expansion of the electricity supply system in Ethiopia are quite scarce. The Ethiopian Power System Expansion Master Plan, completed in 2014, was done for the Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP) Utility for the period 2013–2037.

Organisations of the United Nations, and other overseas research institutions are responding to the need to build up energy system modelling and planning capacity in Ethiopia under various projects, which is leading to a duplication of activities, disorganised learnings for local trainees, and thus wasted resources.

The reference energy system (RES) of Ethiopian electricity sector. Primary energy resources include all energy products not transformed to electricity, that is, the resources or unconverted fuels that could be exploited by technologies for electricity generation.

Ethiopia stands at a critical juncture in its energy journey. The country has ambitious plans to harness its vast renewable energy potential, reform its power sector, and achieve universal electricity access. While these goals offer tremendous opportunities, they also present significant challenges.

Context and unique features of developing countries are considered during modelling. Grid-extension and off-grid supply options are assessed in improving the low-electricity access in Ethiopia. Renewable technologies are more competitive and favourable in the context of Ethiopia.

Considering their type of input fuel sources and power plant size, sixteen types of power technologies are available in the Ethiopian RES (see Table 2). Hydropower plants are classified as large-scale (>100 MW), medium-scale (20–100 MW) and small-scale (<20 MW).