Ethiopia Opens 80MW Wind Farm for Clean Energy Future

Wind turbines are now spinning across Ethiopia's Somali Regional State, bringing clean power to thousands and proving that green energy infrastructure can thrive in Africa.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed inaugurated the Aysha II Wind Power Plant on Saturday, celebrating the completion of its first phase alongside leaders from Djibouti and Somalia. The ceremony wasn't just about flipping a switch. It was about showcasing how one nation's commitment to renewable energy can spark regional cooperation and economic growth.

The numbers tell an impressive story. Thirty-two wind turbines are already operational, each generating 2.5 megawatts of electricity. That's at least one megawatt more per turbine than Ethiopia's previous wind farms, thanks to advanced technology introduced by Dongfang Electric Corporation, the Chinese company that built the project.

When fully complete, Aysha II will feature 48 turbines with a total capacity of 120 megawatts. The project launched in 2017, and its successful first phase is already connected to Ethiopia's national grid, delivering power to homes and businesses across the country.

The location itself reveals Ethiopia's strategic thinking. The Somali Region is rich in wind, solar, and natural gas resources that have remained largely untapped until now. Ethiopian Electric Power plans to launch two more wind farms nearby, adding another 650 megawatts of generating capacity to the region.

The Ripple Effect

This wind farm represents more than just clean electricity. Prime Minister Abiy emphasized that the project reflects Ethiopia's pursuit of self-reliance through smart use of local resources, a philosophy that could inspire other African nations sitting on similar renewable wealth.

The presence of leaders from Djibouti and Somalia at the inauguration wasn't coincidental. Ethiopia's clean energy development is designed to foster regional integration and cross-border connectivity, creating opportunities for power sharing and economic partnerships across East Africa.

The technology transfer matters too. Moges Mekonnen from Ethiopian Electric Power told reporters that Dongfang Electric brought designs and innovations never before used in Ethiopia's wind sector, raising the bar for future renewable projects.

With two more major wind farms on the horizon and a region blessed with abundant natural resources, Ethiopia is building a blueprint for how developing nations can leapfrog fossil fuels and build their futures on clean energy.