World Power Plants

Gilgel Gibe II420 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewable

Gilgel Gibe II is a significant hydroelectric power generation facility located in Ethiopia, with a notable capacity of 420 MW. Commissioned in 2010, this plant is instrumental in supporting Ethiopia's aspirations for energy independence and economic development. Utilizing run-of-river hydro technology, Gilgel Gibe II efficiently converts the kinetic energy of river flow into electrical power, making the most of the country’s vast water resources. The geographical coordinates of the plant are 7.7571, 37.5624, situating it in a region where the natural landscape is conducive to hydroelectric generation. Gilgel Gibe II plays a critical role in the local and national energy grid, providing a reliable electricity supply that supports both residential and industrial consumers, fostering economic growth in the region. The operational context of this facility is aligned with Ethiopia's ambitions to become a regional power hub in East Africa, as the country aims to increase its electricity access and export capabilities. The significance of Gilgel Gibe II extends beyond mere energy generation; it is a symbol of Ethiopia's commitment to renewable energy and sustainable development, reflecting the government’s strategic focus on hydropower as a primary energy source. This hydroelectric power plant contributes not only to energy security but also to the nation’s broader goals of reducing reliance on fossil fuels and enhancing environmental sustainability.

Capacity
420 MW
Commissioning Year
2010

16 years old

Owner
Ethiopian Electric Power
Location
7.7571°, 37.5624°

Ethiopia, Africa

Context & rankings
  • 3. largest of 13 plants in Ethiopia
  • #5,099 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #832 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 10.44% of the installed capacity of Ethiopia
Age & fleet comparison

16 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

Ethiopian Electric Power operates 12 plants totalling 4,017 MW

Regional density

1 plants within 100 km, 184 MW combined

Nearest plant: Gilgel Gibe I (27.7 km)

Location

Coordinates:: 7.757100, 37.562400
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Gilgel Gibe II is a hydro power plant producing approximately 1472 GWh of clean electricity per year with zero direct CO₂ emissions during operation.

Lifecycle emissions: ~24 g CO₂/kWh (manufacturing, transport, decommissioning)

Technical Details

Primary Fuel Type
Hydro
Energy Source
Renewable
Country
Ethiopia
Continent
Africa
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

EthiopiaEnergy Profile

13
Total Plants
4.0 GW
Total Capacity
HydroWindGeothermal
Top Fuels

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