Ethiopia envisages use of solar energy for irrigation purposes

Addis Ababa, December 5, 2022 (FBC) – Ministry of Water and Energy (MoWE) announced efforts to utilize solar energy potentials for irrigation purposes.

The ministry has launched projects aimed to use renewable energies for agricultural purposes in four regions; South, Sidama, Oromia and Amhara, as preparations are finalized for pilot run in 9 selected sites.

In the wake of launch of the projects, State Minister of MoWE Sultan Wolli (PhD) discussed with communities in project sites in South, Sidama and Oromia regions where he consulted with residents on the implementation of the project.

The State Minister indicated that more than 7,000 people in pilot project sites will get access to electricity, and 1,200 ha of land will be cultivated through solar energy powered irrigation schemes to be implemented in partnership with Global Energy Alliance for people and plant (GEAPP).

The project is to be financed with a budget secured form African Development Bank, he added.