Ethiopia to distribute 2M cook stoves to off-grid residents this year

Addis Ababa, September 24, 2024 (FBC) – The Ministry of Water and Energy announced that approximately 2 million clean cooking solutions will be distributed to off-grid populations this year across Ethiopia.

The Ministry, in partnership with the German Development Cooperation (GIZ), held a discussion on energy-saving technologies that meet international clean cooking technology standards.

Birhanu Woldu, Executive Director of Rural Energy Technology Development and Transfer at the Ministry of Water and Energy, emphasized that efforts are being made to promote equitable and modern energy use by advancing suitable, clean, and energy-efficient technologies for our country.

Among the energy technologies being developed by the Ministry are clean and energy-efficient solutions, solar technologies, and mini biogas systems.

“In the past 15 years, 20.5 million improved and fuel-efficient technologies have been distributed in Ethiopia. Efforts are underway to increase this number to 31 million by 2030. This year alone, we aim to distribute 2 million improved cooking technologies to communities.”

The Ministry of Water and Energy is making significant efforts to expand access to these solutions. Moving forward, various initiatives are being implemented to create a society free from three stone open fires.

The technologies are being distributed particularly in areas where the main power lines do not reach, he said, adding that a digital application for tracking the distribution of these technologies is also being introduced.

This technology is significant as it is expected to play a crucial role in determining which areas receive electricity and solar technology, ensuring fair energy distribution.

Programme Manager of Energizing Development Office at GIZ, Al Mudabbir Bin Anam said we affirm our dedication in promoting efficient, clean and environmentally sound energy technologies and GIZ is implementing various energy projects in Ethiopia aimed at strengthening the transformation of the energy sector.

The GIZ program is an international flagship initiative, funded through multiple sources, focused on providing access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy solutions for the off-grid population of Ethiopia, as reported by local news agency ENA.

“Today, we gather to highlight several landmark initiatives that form the foundation of this workshop. These outcomes are the result of years of collaboration, research, and innovation.”

In collaboration with the ministry, we conducted extensive tests on 26 solid biomass cook stoves, concentrating on thermal energy efficiency and safety, Anam noted stating that the findings provide valuable insights to inform the development of Ethiopia’s clean cooking market.

“Additionally, we are proud to officially launch the Ethiopian portal for the electrification of public institutions. This platform will serve as a comprehensive digital hub, providing up-to-date information on solar electrification projects across the country.”

This platform will be a vital tool for enhancing transparency and improving planning capabilities for the maintenance and repair of electrified social institutions, he concluded.