Ethiopia to pioneer Africa’s largest wind farm project with help of French technology
Last updated 11/06/2009 16:58:16
Wind of change. Photo © Zarina Holmes
Ethiopia has signed a €220 million deal with a French company to develop Africa's largest wind farm.
The project is expected to generate 120 megawatts within two and half years, which is 15% of Ethiopia’s present capacity, making it the largest such project on the continent.
The contract was inked by representatives of the Ethiopian Electric Power Corporation (EEPC) and French wind turbine manufacturer Vergnet.
"This project will help us to fill the gap of hydrological risks we are facing in Ethiopia with the droughts," said EEPC chairman, Meheret Debebe.
Ethiopia has been chronically hit by droughts, affecting the humanitarian plight of millions as well as crippling its electricity production, which is heavily reliant on hydroelectric dams.
The landlocked Horn of Africa country - Africa's second most populous - is currently experiencing a severe drought and has been plagued by incessant power cuts in recent months.
"It is also very symbolic of France's commitment to developing renewable energies," said French Minister of State for Foreign Trade Anne-Marie Idrac said at the signing ceremony.