Africa’s biggest hydroelectric dam has reached another milestone with the successful activation of its fifth operational turbine. The Unit 6 marks a step forward in Ethiopia’s hydropower development. According to project officials, Unit 6 has begun generating electricity following a series of pre-commissioning tests. The turbine, originally rated for 400 MW, is currently operating at 401.26 MW, reaching 100.32% capacity efficiency. The dam is designed to house 11 hydroelectric turbines, each with a capacity of approximately 400 MW. GERD’s Unit 6 is the latest to enter service, contributing to an increased total generation capacity.
Project engineers attribute this efficiency to optimizing turbine performance and precision engineering. Moreover, it also contributes to seamless grid integration. In addition to Unit 6, Turbine No. 5 is in its final commissioning phase. The Ethiopian Electric Power Corporation notes that this will also be operational soon. The dam has already brought Units 7 and 8 into service in previous phases.
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The continued expansion of Africa’s biggest hydroelectric dam generation capacity is expected to contribute to Ethiopia’s energy security. Once all turbines are installed, the dam is expected to have key areas of impact. These include increased electricity access to support households, industries, and public services. Furthermore, it will also improve industrial and agricultural development, as a reliable electricity supply could facilitate industrial expansion. The project also holds the potential for energy exports to neighboring countries.
This will also strengthen regional energy cooperation. With Unit 6 now complete, Africa’s biggest hydroelectric dam continues its phased approach towards full capacity. The activation of the fifth turbine is undergoing final tests. Once done, it is expected to increase power production in the coming months further. Furthermore, the project is expected to play a key role in Ethiopia’s long term energy strategy as Africa’s largest hydroelectric power project. Ethiopia is hopeful that the dam will be significant in key areas of the nation’s economy.
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