A 230 kV mobile substation constructed in Bahir Dar has been completed and is now operational, according to Ethiopian Electric Power’s (EEP) Northwest Region.

Regional Director Mr. Getachew Teshager stated that the city had previously relied on a single 400/230 kV substation, which was no longer sufficient to meet the steadily increasing electricity demand from residents and businesses.

He noted that the existing Bahir Dar substation has been supplying approximately 125 megawatts of electricity to the city and surrounding industries. However, having reached its maximum loading capacity, it has been unable to accommodate additional demand.

The newly commissioned mobile substation is expected to deliver an additional 47 megawatts of electricity. This is anticipated to help mitigate the frequent power interruptions and voltage fluctuations experienced in the city, at least in the short term.

The facility will serve Bahir Dar city, Hamusit town, and nearby areas, thereby improving the overall reliability of power supply in the region.

According to Mr. Getachew, the substation is equipped with a 50 MVA transformer, one 230 kV incoming line, and five 15 kV outgoing feeders.

He further indicated that customers with electricity demand exceeding 53 megawatts are currently awaiting service connections from Ethiopian Electric Utility.

In light of the growing demand, he emphasized the need for continued investment in power infrastructure to sustainably meet both current needs and future growth in electricity consumption.