How much does a solar PV system cost in Ethiopia?

Another recent study in Nigeria analyzed the technical and economic performance of an 80 kW solar PV grid connected system (contributing 40.4%) in combination with a 100 kW power from the grid and showed that the LCOE was about $0.103/kWh . Looking at such cases, the proposed system cost in Ethiopia falls within the range of LCOE in the region.

How much solar energy does Ethiopia receive?

Ethiopia receives a solar irradiation of 5000 – 7000 Wh/m² according to region and season and thus has great potential for the use of solar energy . The average solar radiation is more or less uniform, around 5.2 kWh/m 2 /day.

Is there a private investment in solar power plants in Ethiopia?

However, there was no private investment in solar power plants in Ethiopia. Mainly the Ethiopian Electric Power Corporation (EEPCo) has been a state-owned and vertically integrated monopoly that controls the market from generation to selling of electricity throughout the country .

Is solar a viable option in Ethiopia?

But our previous study identified that the policy makers in Ethiopia believe that solar is too costly and not a viable option . The current electricity tariff in Ethiopia is highly subsidized and one of the lowest in Africa. The tariff depends on the monthly energy consumption and varies among user classification.

What is the history of solar PV systems in Ethiopia?

In the next section, brief overview of previous studies and historical background of PV systems in Ethiopia is included. The first standalone solar PV system in Ethiopia was introduced in the mid of 1980s to a remote village located in the central part of the country .

Should Ethiopia invest in photovoltaics?

Predicted by Swanson's law, the levelized costs for photovoltaics have plunged to levels just above that of hydropower and wind power. Ethiopia aims to diversify its electricity generation capabilities by investing into an energy mix, of which photovoltaics will be a part.