As part of a tender under the EnDev program by the German International Cooperation Society (GIZ) the South German battery manufacturer BOS AG launched in the year 2022 an electrification project in five off-grid communities in Ethiopia. Access to a stable power supply is not a given in many regions of Ethiopia but plays a key role in improving living conditions and fostering economic development. Together with its project partners, BOS achieved a significant milestone for Ethiopia’s energy security and economic future with the successful completion of solar mini-grid systems in December 2024.
The project, which includes a total lithium-ion storage capacity of 1,330 kWh, successfully electrified the communities of Gera, Oborso, Kurtile, and Oda. With the project’s completion, 4,000 people now have access to reliable and clean energy. In addition to private households, small businesses and craftsmen particularly benefit from the stable and rapid energy supply. This not only enhances living conditions locally but also provides a vital boost to economic growth in the region. Through this project, BOS reaffirms its commitment to sustainable energy solutions in developing regions.
Networking Event in Addis Abeba emphasizes the importance of the Electrification Project
The project’s completion was celebrated with a networking event on December 17, 2024, in Addis Ababa. In collaboration with GIZ and project partner Green Scene Energy, BOS organized the event to honor the successful cooperation within the RES Programme for the Oborso East reference installation. The event was attended by high-ranking representatives from Ethiopia’s Ministry of Water and Energy, the German Embassy, and numerous industry professionals.
The event provided not only a platform to showcase the project’s achievements but also an opportunity for constructive dialogue on future electrification projects. Contributions from project partners and a project film about the electrification of Oborso East illustrated the positive impact on the region and the lives of its people. In his speech, Benjamin Seckinger, CEO of BOS, emphasized the significance of such projects for sustainable development and the economic future of the region. Drawing on his experiences from previous projects, including with "Engineers Without Borders," he highlighted the pivotal role of partnerships and innovative energy solutions.
During the following discussion round, participants had the opportunity to ask questions, exchange experiences, and develop ideas for future collaborations. The successful implementation of the project in Oromia has impressively demonstrated the potential of sustainable energy solutions. For BOS, its project partners, and the local communities, the project underscores the importance of further initiatives to contribute to Ethiopia's economic development and quality of life in the long term.