Ethiopia’s state-owned electric power company is planning to develop a 100 MW Solar PV power plant near the town of Metahara, 200 km east of the capital Addis Ababa. The project is supported by Power Africa, a U.S. Government-led partnership to promote new generation and increase access to electricity in Africa. The plant will be built and owned by an independent power producer (IPP) selected through an international competitive tender.
The Metahara Solar PV power plant, which will supply electricity to the Ethiopian national grid, will be one of the largest solar power facilities in Africa. The project location encompasses 250 hectares of undeveloped land adjacent to the main road between Addis Ababa and Djibouti. Solar panels and other equipment will be transported by road or rail from the Port of Djibouti.
Scope of work
Multiconsult is responsible for the environmental and social impact assessment for the Metahara PV power plant. The study will be performed in compliance with national environmental laws and the World Bank’s guide-lines and standards. This is a precondition for the project to receive a license, and for the private developer to obtain international financing.
The impact assessment will cover important issues like land use and compensations for farmers and cattle herders who use the area on a seasonal basis. Impacts on the natural environment and biodiversity will also be assessed, since the site is near to Awash National Park. Other important topics include landscape and cultural heritage. Environmental and social management plans will also be prepared for the construction and operating phases.
Our services
- Scoping Report
- Environmental and Social Impact Assessment
- Environmental and Social Management Plan