Addis Ababa, September 30, 2024 (FBC) – The Ministry of Water and Energy (MoWE) has unveiled an ambitious initiative aimed at distributing 31.5 million smart ovens to rural communities across Ethiopia by 2030, a key component of the nation’s strategy to advance clean energy solutions.
Birhanu Woldu, Executive Officer of the Rural Energy Technology Development and Transfer at MoWE, shared the progress of the initiative with the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA), highlighting the construction of 150 small rivers for power generation to support the smart oven distribution.
“The introduction of smart ovens is essential for mitigating health risks, reducing energy waste, enhancing economic productivity, and fostering environmental sustainability in rural areas,” Birhanu explained. He noted that 20.5 million smart ovens have already been distributed, significantly alleviating the dangers associated with traditional cooking methods, particularly for mothers exposed to harmful smoke.
In its pursuit of clean energy alternatives, the government is focused on replacing traditional ovens that contribute to substantial energy loss. The initiative encompasses various strategies including the promotion of solar power, biomass energy, clean cooking technologies, along with awareness campaigns to ensure equitable access to energy throughout rural regions.
To improve energy consumption, MoWE is also integrating digital applications with solar power distribution systems. This innovative approach is projected to enhance power availability, and the smart ovens are designed to save up to 70% of energy, according to Birhanu.
In the previous year, the MoWE successfully built 14 solar mini-grids and initiated the development of three small rivers for power generation, with one set to commence operations shortly.
Emphasizing the importance of clean cooking energy technologies, Tilahun Shimelis, Deputy Head of the Amhara State Water and Energy Bureau, stated that these solutions are crucial for protecting the health of women and children, tackling climate change, and delivering economic advantages to rural communities. However, he acknowledged persistent challenges, including a shortage of skilled labor and inadequate budgets, in meeting the growing power demand.
Supporting this perspective, Teketel Matiwos, Director of Alternative Energy Development at the Central Ethiopia Mines and Energy Bureau, stressed that providing clean cooking technologies is vital for conserving forests and addressing health risks for mothers and children. “We are committed to ensuring equitable access to clean energy in the coming years,” he affirmed.
The widespread distribution of smart ovens signifies a pivotal advancement toward a cleaner, healthier, and more energy-efficient future for rural communities in Ethiopia.