The Southern Region 1 has developed a plan to increase transformer capacity at Yirgalem No. 2, Hawassa No. 2, and Dilla substations in order to respond to the continuously growing electricity demand in the region, according to the Manager of the Substation Operation and Maintenance Office of the region.

The Manager, Ato Yalew Amare, stated that the Hawassa No. 1 and Dilla substations have played a significant role in supporting the growth and development currently observed in these cities.

However, he explained that at present, most power substations in the region – including Hawassa No. 1 Substation – are operating at more than 90 percent of their load capacity, making it increasingly difficult for them to adequately accommodate additional electricity demand.

To address the growing demand for power, Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP) is therefore working on plans to expand capacity by installing additional transformers at Yirgalem No. 2, Hawassa No. 2, and Dilla substations, the manager said.

He also noted that preparations are underway to ensure reliable substation operations by replacing aged control breakers and various switchyard control equipment that have been in service for many years with modern and upgraded technologies.

According to Ato Yalew, until the planned capacity expansion and modernization works of the substations are completed, efforts are being made in coordination with Ethiopian Electric Utility (EEU) to maintain the continuity of power supply by implementing appropriate operational measures.