The civil works of the Tirga 132 kV power substation, a key component of the Southern Electric Grid Expansion Project, have reached 45 percent completion, according to the project’s civil works supervisor.

The supervisor, Mr. Dereje Kifle, stated that the steel structure and electrical works for the control building have been completed, and preparations are currently underway for roof concrete casting.

He also noted that the installation of internal drainage lines and the construction of residential buildings are progressing simultaneously.

Furthermore, Mr. Dereje explained that the project’s electromechanical works have reached 15 percent completion, adding that the equipment required for installation has already arrived at the site.

Transformer oil filling and filtration works will be carried out in the coming days to prepare the transformer for operation.

According to the supervisor, the substation will feature one 132 kV double-circuit incoming transmission line, one 50 MVA transformer, and five 33 kV outgoing feeder lines.

Once completed, the substation will expand irrigation development in the area, supply electricity to nearby communities and a sugar factory currently under construction, and enable surplus power generated from the factory’s by-products to be integrated into the national grid.

Mr. Dereje also indicated that shortages of construction materials, fuel supply constraints, and the area’s challenging weather conditions have impacted the project’s timeline.

The Tirga 132 kV power substation project is located in Nyangatom Woreda of the South Omo Zone, approximately 1,070 kilometers from Addis Ababa.