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World Bank approves $400 million program to expand clean energy access in Ethiopia
The World Bank has approved a $400 million financing package to support Ethiopia’s efforts to provide clean and reliable electricity to nearly six million people. The funding is part of the Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) Program for Results (PforR), an initiative aimed at addressing the country's energy access challenges.
Despite significant progress in recent years through large-scale investments in energy infrastructure and national electrification plans, millions of Ethiopians—mostly in rural and peri-urban areas—still live without adequate electricity. According to preliminary findings from the World Bank's 2025 Multitier Energy Access Survey, about 71 million people continue to rely on polluting fuels for lighting and cooking, impacting health, education, and economic growth.
“ASCENT Ethiopia represents our commitment to helping the country achieve universal energy access,” said Maryam Salim, World Bank Country Director for Eritrea, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Sudan. “By prioritizing underserved and low-income communities, this program will improve essential services, promote climate goals, and drive inclusive development.”
The program builds on previous initiatives such as the Ethiopia Electrification Program (ELEAP) and the Access to Distributed Electricity and Lighting in Ethiopia (ADELE). Over the next five years, ASCENT aims to connect households and businesses near the existing grid, particularly those close to medium-voltage lines.
In addition to expanding network access, ASCENT will support policy reforms and institutional frameworks that ensure equity in electrification, including updates to the National Electrification Program and grid connection regulations. The initiative will also modernize public utilities by enhancing digital services and customer experience, and by strengthening institutional capacities in environmental, fiduciary, and gender inclusion practices.
The funding is provided as a grant by the International Development Association (IDA), the World Bank’s fund for low-income countries.
