Ethiopia plans to expand solar power use across households, government institutions, and farms, aiming to cut fuel reliance and strengthen food security, according to The Reporter.

Water and Energy State Minister Eng. Sultan Woli said the country has substantial untapped solar potential. The government intends a phased rollout, installing solar panels on rooftops and converting fuel-powered irrigation pumps to solar.

A study in Addis Ababa indicated the energy that could be generated if all rooftops were fitted with solar systems. Awareness campaigns are now encouraging households to adopt the technology gradually, following models seen in other countries.

“Practical implementation will be challenging, but it is necessary to harness our capacity and expand electricity access,” the state minister said. He added that government offices and public buildings are expected to become continuous users of solar energy.

The initiative also targets agriculture, where solar-powered irrigation pumps could reduce dependence on rainfall, improving food security and agricultural resilience.

For decades, Ethiopia’s energy policy largely excluded the private sector. Recent reforms aim to attract private investment, complementing the government’s renewable energy strategy.

The announcement follows an agreement with the International Solar Alliance (ISA) to jointly promote solar energy development in the country.