Ethiopia has made notable progress in renewable energy over the past decade, with its installed capacity rising from 2.6 GW in 2015 to 6.0 GW in 2024. This growth represents an 8.6% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), demonstrating the country's consistent expansion of its clean energy portfolio. Despite fluctuations in year-on-year changes, Ethiopia has managed to sustain momentum, making it one of the leaders in renewable energy capacity in sub-Saharan Africa.
What stands out is Ethiopia’s resilience in growing its renewable energy sector, even when yearly growth slowed or dipped, as seen in 2018 and 2023. This long-term consistency reflects a broader strategy of leveraging its natural resources, particularly hydro power, to build a sustainable energy base. Ethiopia’s current renewable capacity of 6.0 GW puts it ahead of Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, which stands at 3.7 GW.