Ethiopia commissions solar cell manufacturing plant to boost renewable energy capacity
Date: 2026-05-03
By: Kanto Kai Okanta
Ethiopia
has advanced its renewable energy ambitions with the commissioning of the
Gobeze Solar Cell manufacturing plant in Addis Ababa, marking a significant
step in expanding local energy production capacity.
The
facility, located within the Huajian Special Economic Zone, was established
following an agreement signed during the 2025 Invest in Ethiopia Forum, with an
initial investment of 100 million dollars.
Minister
Enatalem Melese, who visited the plant, said the project became operational
within six months due to sustained government support and close implementation
oversight. The factory is equipped with modern machinery and technology
designed to support large-scale solar production.
In
its first phase, the plant has an annual production capacity of 2 gigawatts,
contributing to Ethiopia’s broader strategy of meeting its energy demand
through renewable sources.
Officials
noted that the project has also created employment opportunities for citizens,
supporting both industrial development and job creation.
During
the visit, the minister also toured a shoe manufacturing factory and an
electrical substation within the industrial park, highlighting ongoing efforts
to strengthen Ethiopia’s industrial and energy infrastructure.
