The first phase of boosting the electricity production capacity of the Beleza power plant by installing three new generators, with a combined capacity of 22 megawatts of electricity, has been successfully integrated into the national grid and began providing service starting from September 29.
The second phase of the project will focus on rehabilitating the Hirgigo power plant. This phase will involve overhauling four generating engine sets, which, once completed, will enable a 24-hour stable and reliable power supply across the country. The upgrades are expected to significantly reduce power outages and provide consistent energy to support both households and industries.
To implement these improvements, the Eritrean Electricity Corporation has partnered with the Chinese company CFECO, which has been contracted to carry out the upgrade works.
In total, the corporation plans to increase the country’s electricity capacity by an additional 132 megawatts, bringing the total capacity to 283.1 megawatts. This increase will come from both the new installations at Beleza and the rehabilitation work at Hirgigo.
In addition, a new 30 MW grid-connected Solar PV power plant project in Dekemhare has been initiated earlier this year and is expected to be commissioned within 24 months.
The electricity supply expansion project, first launched in November 2021, has progressed through three phases despite occasional delays caused by sanctions and restrictions.
Nevertheless, the project’s completion in the near future will lead to a 24-hour reliable power supply, helping to meet the growing demand for electricity in Eritrea and supporting the nation’s long-term development goals. [TN]