Additional GERD turbines would unleash regional power connectivity: Former Negotiator

Addis Ababa, August 27, 2024 (FBC) – The commissioning of additional two turbines of the Grande Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) demonstrates Ethiopia’s positive intention to interconnect the region electric power supply, former GERD negotiator and water resources researcher Fekahmed Negash remarked.

The commissioning of additional two turbines of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) demonstrates Ethiopia’s positive intention to interconnect the region through electric power supply, the former dam negotiator and water resources researcher Fekahmed Negash said.

It is to be recalled that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced last weekend that two additional turbines at the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam have become operational.

Note that along with the uninterrupted flow of the river, the dam’s spillways have been opened, releasing an additional 2,800 cubic meters of water per second.

GERD plays a crucial role in managing water flow, mitigating flood risks, and ensuring that downstream nations receive a steady supply of water, particularly during droughts, Abiy said on social media post.

This carefully regulated release will significantly enhance agricultural productivity, boost power generation, and improve resource utilization throughout the region.

The former GERD negotiator and water resources researcher Fekahmed Negash told ENA that functioning of all turbines could foster trust among basin countries.

Fekahmed said that while the entire turbines of the dam were originally scheduled to be operational by now, unforeseen circumstances have prevented the full implementation in this regard.

The two turbines already commissioned and the recent additions of two more turbines will double the power supply, he added.

The researcher emphasized that the commissioning of the turbines is crucial not only for augmenting Ethiopia’s energy supply but also demonstrates the country’s effort to connect the region with electric power, as reported by ENA.

In its recent annual performance, the Ethiopian Electric Power the Grand Renaissance Dam generated 17 percent of the total energy from only 2 of the 13 turbines in 2023/24 Ethiopian fiscal year.

Fekahmed further stressed the need for reinforcing maximum efforts on putting the remaining turbines into operation that would be paramount for augmenting the dam’s power generating capacity.