The Methahar Solar Mini-Grid Project has officially begun operations, bringing electricity to over 2,500 households in Wantowire District, Gambella Regional State.
Completed through a collaboration between the Ministry of Water & Energy and the Ethiopian Electric Utility, the project delivers 250kWp of clean energy, backed by a 60kWh standby generator to ensure uninterrupted supply.
The system, built at a cost exceeding 96 million birr, is hailed as a milestone in rural electrification.
Gatluak Rion (PhD), Deputy Head of Gambella’s Urban & Infrastructure Bureau, called the project a testament to ongoing government efforts to extend energy access to underserved areas.
Sultan Wali (PhD), State Minister of Energy, emphasised the project’s role in the broader national strategy. “Our ministry is committed to ensuring equitable access,” he said, highlighting that Gambella is benefiting from mini-grids, institutional electrification, and solar home systems.
Three of the 100 mini-grids planned under the national rollout will be located in Gambella, where civil works are set to begin. In addition, 31 institutions, comprising 2 health centres, 21 secondary, and 8 primary schools, will receive standalone solar systems.
Sultan noted the focus on off-grid areas and called on communities to safeguard the infrastructure. “These plants must be protected with a sense of ownership,” he urged.
The launch drew senior officials, elders, and local residents in a show of regional support.
Anwar Abrar of the Ethiopian Electric Utility confirmed that the mini-grid will directly power 2,500 households.