Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP) has officially launched a joint knowledge-sharing and study program with the Government of the Republic of Korea aimed at modernizing Ethiopia’s electricity tariff negotiation framework.
During the launch ceremony, EEP Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Ashebir Balcha, highlighted the long-standing partnership between the two countries in developing and modernizing the energy sector.
He noted that although Ethiopia possesses vast renewable energy potential, national electricity access currently stands at only 54 percent.
To address this gap, the institution is focusing on strengthening its financial capacity and updating tariff-related procedures to better leverage the country’s green energy resources.
According to Engineer Ashebir, the program presents a strategic opportunity to draw on South Korea’s extensive experience in tariff frameworks to modernize Ethiopia’s existing systems.
Beyond establishing a clear roadmap for reform, the collaboration is designed to ensure substantial knowledge transfer.
The CEO expressed confidence that the initiative would pave the way for increased participation of South Korean investors in Ethiopia’s power development sector.
He added that EEP is committed to fulfilling its responsibilities to ensure the program progresses swiftly from the study phase to practical implementation.
The South Korean Ambassador to Ethiopia, Mr. Jung Kang, emphasized the deep historical ties between the two countries, recalling the sacrifice of Ethiopian soldiers during the Korean War as a cornerstone of their enduring relationship.
He reaffirmed that the South Korean government and its embassy in Addis Ababa are more committed than ever to supporting the modernization of Ethiopia’s energy sector through knowledge sharing and various development initiatives.
Dr. Wondwosen Kassa, Director of the Ethio-Power Academy at EEP, revealed that Ethiopia’s proposal for the project was selected as a winner among more than 400 international submissions under the South Korean government’s Knowledge Sharing Program.
He explained that the expert-led study will not only modernize operational procedures but also significantly strengthen the capacity of local professionals.
By aligning the tariff negotiation framework with international standards, the initiative aims to enhance EEP’s financial sustainability, encourage private investment, and mitigate sectoral risks.
Furthermore, Mr. Seungel-Cheol Lee, a Senior Advisor for the South Korean Knowledge Sharing Program, pledged his commitment to completing the study promptly to facilitate the framework’s modernization.
Mr. Jin-Ok Park, Director General of the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) office in Addis Ababa, also confirmed that his agency will play a central role in coordinating the program to ensure its success.
