Ethiopian Solar Energy Association Calls for Government Support to Promote Widespread Adoption of Solar Power in Agriculture

Strategic Insights -

The Ethiopian Solar Energy Development Association has emphasized the transformative potential of solar power in powering rural communities and driving sustainable development, particularly in agriculture. The Association is urging the government to introduce incentives such as easing tax burdens on imported solar-powered pumps to encourage farmers to shift from rain-fed agriculture to solar technology. The Association General Manager, Yemisrach Sisay, highlighted that farmers with access to solar-powered irrigation could see their incomes increase by two to three times a year, but many lack access to long-term bank credit to afford the technology.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Ethiopian Solar Energy Development Association is advocating for government support to promote the widespread adoption of solar power in agriculture, citing its potential to boost productivity and drive sustainable development.
  • The Association is calling for the government to introduce incentives such as easing tax burdens on imported solar-powered pumps to encourage farmers to transition from rain-fed agriculture to solar technology.
  • According to Yemisrach Sisay, farmers with access to solar-powered irrigation can see their incomes increase by two to three times a year, but many lack access to long-term bank credit to afford the technology.
  • The Association provides technical support and capacity building to its member companies, which currently engage in activities such as importing, assembling, installing, and distributing solar technology.
  • Some member companies are contractors working on mini-grids to bring electricity to rural communities, while others distribute irrigation technologies that improve local economies.
  • Local companies are not yet manufacturing solar equipment, but some are engaged in assembling products.
  • Policy reform is essential to strengthen the sector, especially since the private sector faces financial shortages and capacity challenges.

Statistics:

  • Farmers with access to solar-powered irrigation can see their incomes increase by two to three times a year.
  • The Association follows up on the activities of about 100 companies engaged in importing, assembling, installing, and distributing solar technology.
  • Local companies are importing and assembling solar equipment, with some distributing irrigation technologies that improve local economies.

Sources:

  • Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA) article dated 21 Aug 2025
  • Ethiopian Solar Energy Development Association
  • Interview with Yemisrach Sisay, General Manager of the Ethiopian Solar Energy Development Association