The Ethiopian Electric Power Transmission and Substation Operation Sector has announced the successful completion of switchgear modernization at seven substations during the first half of the 2017 fiscal year.
This initiative is part of a broader plan to upgrade control systems across 37 substations within the same fiscal period.
Mr. Gashaw Endrias, Director of the Regional Coordination Department, highlighted that the modernization of switchgear systems at the Asheda, Dire Dawa III, Jigjiga, Bahir Dar II, Dila, and Gashena substations, which handle 15 kV and 33 kV lines, was fully completed within the first six months of the fiscal year.
Concurrently, civil works and equipment installation are progressing at an additional 21 substations.
These upgrades are expected to significantly reduce maintenance needs and minimize power outages, thereby enhancing the overall reliability of the power supply network.
The newly installed switchgear systems feature fully enclosed control breakers designed to withstand dust, moisture, and external elements, ensuring long-term durability.
This advanced technology replaces outdated systems, thereby enhancing the operational capacity and efficiency of the substations
Mr. Million Belete, the Maintenance and Upgrade Coordinator at the company, elaborated on the execution of these projects. He noted that the switchgear replacement was carried out without interrupting the power supply, by temporarily extending other control systems.
Importantly, the work was conducted by the company’s own experts, resulting in a cost saving of over 50% compared to outsourcing to foreign companies.
The company is also collaborating with the supplier of the modern breakers to focus on capacity building for its professionals.
This partnership aims to enhance the technical expertise of the institution’s workforce, ensuring the sustainable operation and maintenance of the upgraded systems.
However, the project has faced several challenges, including the lack of crane services near the substations, shortages of construction materials, and logistical difficulties in transporting equipment to the sites. These issues have negatively impacted the project’s progress.
Looking ahead, EEP has outlined a three-phase plan to upgrade a total of 75 substations. To date, the modernization of 25 substations has been completed, marking a significant step forward in the effort to enhance the efficiency and reliability of Ethiopia’s power substation network.
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