Will Ethiopia's largest hydro-electric dam straddling the Blue Nile help electrify the country?

The vastness of the building site was at first overwhelming for the young Ethiopian mechanical engineer. Hundreds were already digging the foundations in tough conditions for what is now Africa's largest hydro-electric dam, straddling the Blue Nile. The dam will help electrify the country as well as provide power to the region.

How much power can Ethiopia produce without a dam?

Now, with all the turbines working, thoughts turn to what difference the power can make to Ethiopia. At full capacity it should generate 5,100MW of power - more than double what the country produces without the dam and enough to supply tens of millions more homes in the country.

Will Ethiopia's new dam stop floods & drought?

The dam’s reservoir has flooded an area larger than Greater London, which the government says will provide a steady water supply for irrigation downstream while limiting floods and drought. Ethiopia’s downstream neighbors, however, have watched the project advance with dread since construction began in 2011.

Can Ethiopia become a regional energy hub?

Beyond addressing domestic energy needs, the project positions Ethiopia to become a regional energy hub, fostering economic growth and cooperation. The GERD is being constructed to achieve an average annual energy production of about 15,760 GWH, featuring a 1,780 m long and 145 m high Roller Compacted Concrete dam.

Will extra power help Ethiopia's bitcoin mining industry?

While the extra power will help the country’s burgeoning bitcoin mining industry, most rural Ethiopians may have to wait a little longer to benefit. Access to electricity in rural areas is often constrained by underdeveloped transmission networks.