29.09.2021

250 MW Wind Power capacity for Ethiopia

Ethiopia wants to massively expand its resource-efficient power generation. Therefore, the state-owned power utility, Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP), has launched an ambitious program to generate up to 1.2 GW of power plant capacity from wind power. The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a subsidiary of the World Bank, supports the Ethiopian government to develop grid-connected wind installations with a capacity of up to 250 MW. Two initial potential sites, Debre Birhan and Aysha, have already been identified through a feasibility study by RINA UK Ltd.

GAUFF Engineering Power has been contracted under this program to investigate in detail these sites with a targeted capacity of 125 MW each.

The assignment includes project management for the site investigations, hydrological studies, geotechnical and seismic conditions investigations, topographical surveys, and route analysis for the transportation of the components required to erect the wind turbines. The rotor blades alone can be 80 meters long and are shipped and transported in one piece. A single transformer can weigh 100 tons and, accordingly, the transport routes must be conscientiously checked for their load-bearing capacity in advance. GAUFF Engineering Power can rely on its strong and proven network of local partners in Ethiopia. Subsequently, the tendering as an IPP project (Independent Power Producer) will take place, as well as the evaluation and selection of the bidders.

By 2023, the future owners and operators of the turbines should be determined, and the construction of the wind turbines should begin promptly.