RISED Ethiopia: strengthening the power grid for a stronger, smarter and greener future
RISED responds to key challenges in Ethiopia’s transmission system, including ageing infrastructure, service quality constraints, transmission losses and the need to prepare the grid for a more modern and diversified energy mix. By combining investments in energy infrastructure, digital systems and institutional capacity, the programme supports Ethiopia’s green and digital transition in an integrated way.
Objectives
RISED Ethiopia aims to strengthen the national transmission grid so it can deliver more reliable electricity, support the integration of renewable energy and improve overall system performance. The programme includes the rehabilitation and automation of substations, the extension of the optical fibre network through Optical Ground Wire (OPGW) technology, the construction of a cybersecure National Load Dispatch Centre, upgrades to the Ethiopia–Kenya and Ethiopia–Djibouti interconnectors, and support for renewable energy independent power producer projects.
The programme also seeks to unlock wider development benefits beyond the power sector. Through the deployment of OPGW on existing transmission lines, RISED will strengthen smart grid monitoring while enabling EEP to lease broadband capacity to telecom operators, helping expand secure and affordable digital connectivity. By 2030, the programme is expected to improve electricity access for 4 million people, bring mobile broadband connectivity to 12 million people, deliver 16 GWh of energy savings per year, avoid 150,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually, and reduce the frequency and duration of power outages by 50%.
Approach
RISED combines infrastructure investment with long-term institutional strengthening. Alongside physical upgrades to the transmission network, the programme supports EEP through training, implementation support, change management, gender mainstreaming, asset management and procurement standardisation. According to the project partners, more than 1,500 EEP staff are expected to benefit from training and coaching under the programme.
The initiative reflects a Team Europe approach bringing together grants, loans and technical assistance in support of nationally led priorities. In September 2025, the European Union Delegation to Ethiopia, AFD and the Government of Ethiopia signed a €120 million EU contribution for RISED. The EIB project page lists proposed EIB financing of €83 million and an estimated total project cost of €169 million.
