East Africa is undergoing a dramatic transformation in its energy sector, with hydropower at the heart of the region’s clean energy ambitions. Ethiopia is at the forefront of this movement, leveraging its vast water resources to drive energy security, economic growth, and climate resilience—mirroring global trends highlighted in the 2025 World Hydropower Outlook1.
The centerpiece of Ethiopia’s hydropower strategy is the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), now recognized as Africa’s largest hydropower facility. By April 2025, GERD had reached 98.66% completion, with six turbines operational and full capacity expected later this year. The dam currently provides 2,150 MW of electricity and is set to achieve a total capacity of 5,150 MW once all turbines are online. In its first ten months of operation, GERD generated over 2,700 GWh of electricity—26% above projections—demonstrating the project’s efficiency and the country’s improved water management.
Beyond domestic supply, GERD is poised to bolster regional energy exports, supporting neighboring countries such as Kenya, Uganda, and Sudan, and strengthening Ethiopia’s position as a regional energy powerhouse.
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