afrol News, 14 January - The largest hydro-power scheme in Ethiopia has been launched raising hopes of the country's aim of self-sufficiency and exporting power in the near future.

Ethiopia’s state news agency reported that the 420MW Gilgel Gibe II hydro power project was officially inaugurated yesterday in a ceremony attended by foreign and Ethiopian government officials, media and business leaders.

The project, which was financed by Italy, to the tune of about US$ 407 million, will produce 420 megawatts of electricity. It is the second hydro-power plant to be inaugurated in Ethiopia after the 300MW Tekeze project which officially inaugurated in November last year.

The third phase of the project on the Omo River, the Gilgel Gibe III, is currently under construction and once completed will generate 1100MW of power for Ethiopia.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and Italian Foreign Minister Franco Frattini who gaced the ceremony, were reported by the state news agency having hailed the project as a clean way to development.

"It's possible to speed up development without polluting the environment," Mr Meles was quoted saying, while also stating that the government would strive to double the energy capacity of Ethiopia in the next five years.

Ethiopia is considered one of the African states with a high potential for hydropower and yet its over 80 million inhabitants experience regular electricity shortages , both for the industry and home use.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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