Ethiopia is making significant strides in renewable energy development, thanks to growing collaboration with Chinese companies. The country recently inaugurated the first phase of the Aysha II Wind Power Plant in its Somali Region, marking a milestone in its clean energy agenda.
Samson Tadesse, the project manager for Aysha II, highlighted the role of Chinese firms in Ethiopia’s renewable energy sector. He noted that these companies not only provide financial support but also share technical expertise, helping local engineers and technicians build capacity in the country.
“Chinese firms have a unique approach—they invest directly in local projects while transferring critical skills to our teams,” Tadesse said. He also recalled the earlier Adama I and II wind projects in Oromia Region, emphasizing their impact on Ethiopia’s transition toward a greener economy and reduced carbon emissions.
The Aysha II project, led by Dongfang Electric Corporation, has upgraded the technology used in wind turbines, boosting each unit’s capacity from 1.5 megawatts to 2.5 megawatts. Despite financial challenges, the company contributed its own funds to complete the first phase, which now supplies 80 MW of electricity to the national grid. The project will ultimately reach a total capacity of 120 MW across 48 turbines.
Girma Zeleke, director of supervision and contract administration at Ethiopian Electric Power, noted that Chinese involvement in large-scale energy projects is expanding, particularly in wind power and transmission infrastructure. “China’s global commitment to green energy aligns perfectly with Ethiopia’s abundant renewable resources,” Zeleke said.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who attended the inauguration, emphasized the importance of clean energy in Ethiopia’s economic development. “This project reflects our dedication to sustainable growth and the collaborative spirit that drives it,” he said, thanking all involved parties, including local communities.
The Aysha II Wind Power Plant represents a key step in Ethiopia’s efforts to harness renewable energy and transition to a climate-resilient economy, highlighting the growing role of international partnerships in Africa’s green energy sector.
