Preparations are underway to implement a significant initiative aimed at upgrading Ethiopia's electricity distribution network. The project, titled the Energy Sector Reform, Investment, and Modernization in Ethiopia (PRIME-1), is set to enhance and expand the capacity of electricity lines in 72 cities located across 11 regions.
According to the Ethiopian Electric Utility, the project's core objectives are to stimulate the economic development of these cities, improve the living standards of their populations, ensure a reliable supply of electrical power, and enhance the overall quality of service delivery.
The PRIME-1 project is anticipated to bring several technical benefits, including improved transformer capacity, a reduction in power loss within the network, stabilization of voltage fluctuations, fewer quality defects in electricity service provision, and ultimately, increased overall reliability.
Key components of this extensive project involve the upgrading and modernization of over 6,183 kilometers of existing medium-voltage lines. It will also increase the capacity of 5,569 electricity distribution line transformers and develop the necessary infrastructure to provide electricity access to 887,479 new customers.
Furthermore, the project's scope includes the installation of modern energy meters in the capital, the construction of advanced electricity distribution management and control systems, and facilitating electricity connections for both new residential and industrial customers.
Progress has been reported on the preparatory phases. According to FBC, Phase One successfully completed data collection, verification, and preliminary design work for 34 cities. For Phase Two, comprehensive data collection and preliminary design activities for an additional 38 cities have been finalized in preparation for the project's implementation.