In keeping with Ethiopia’s energy transition plans, training in solar power technologies is underway at the Addis Ababa Institute of Technology organized by the Solar Technology Application Resource-Centre (STAR-C) which acts as Ethiopia’s  technology, knowledge, and expertise hub on solar energy .

The training in the fastest-growing form of power generation in the world as a potential renewable energy option for Ethiopia drew in electrical technology students from the Addis Ababa Polytechnic College.

The training addresses key trends and technological advances driving the solar energy sector towards a more efficient, integrated, and sustainable future alongside Ethiopia’s ambitions of becoming a key power exporter. The electrical technology with renewable energy systems training is set to have a ripple effect as more institutions are expected to follow the lead.

Yonas Minalu, (PhD), Director for Technology Transfer and University Industry Linkage of AAiT said that the STAR-Center was established recently in cooperation with the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the Addis Ababa Institute of Technology aiming to carry out capacity building, product testing, innovation, and knowledge management activities related to solar technologies.

He said, “The STAR-CENTRE has a big role in creating awareness among different social and professional segments that include students, professionals, entrepreneurs, and policy makers on important matters such as system architectures, array configuration, and performance estimation; electrical design characteristics and cost savings associated with solar PV systems, including the challenges and considerations that come with their installation and operation.

Frehiwot Woldehanna (PhD), Director of the STAR-Center, for his part said the solar industry is experiencing a boom and developments in African countries are driving greater demand for solar energy together with national  policies, environmental concerns, and the decreasing cost of solar panels.

It was revealed that Ethiopia has set itself the goal of improving the electricity supply to keep pace with rising demand, arising from rapid urbanization and investment in trade and industry.