Assessment of financial risk of hydropower plants in Ghana: A case of the Pwalugu 50MW Hydropower plant

This study investigates energy access strategies to support Ethiopia’s agro-industrial development, focusing on Rural Transformation Centres (RTCs) linked to Integrated Agro-Industrial Parks (IAIPs). Using the Energy Access Explorer tool, spatial analysis was conducted to evaluate three pathways: connection to existing grid infrastructure, solar energy potential, and wind energy potential. Results show that while seven RTCs are located within 5 KM of distribution substations, lack of data on substation load capacity and RTC energy demand poses challenges to grid integration. Additionally, ten RTCs were identified as suitable for clean energy deployment, based on solar irradiance and wind speed thresholds. The analysis highlights the urgent need to improve energy reliability for RTC functionality and scale-up. Policy recommendations include prioritizing infrastructure upgrades, expanding decentralized solar and wind systems, and integrating RTC energy planning into national strategies. Further field assessments and improved data access will be essential to support investment and implementation in Ethiopia’s rural energy transition.