ADDIS ABABA, April 8 (Xinhua) -- The Ethiopian Electric Utility (EEU), a state-owned electricity service provider, is set to build a massive electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure network as part of the government's commitment to accelerating nationwide EV adoption and fostering green mobility.

Anwar Abrar, chief communications officer at the EEU, said the utility is implementing a two-phase strategic plan to expand EV charging services across the country. The first phase involves the construction of 40 charging stations, currently underway in Addis Ababa, the country's capital, and beyond.

"The utility inaugurated three EV charging stations in Addis Ababa last week, and during the first phase, it will build a total of 32 charging stations in Addis Ababa and eight in nearby cities over the coming months," Abrar told Xinhua in an interview on Monday, noting that three more stations will become operational shortly.

According to the country's Ministry of Transport and Logistics, more than 140,000 EVs are now operating in Addis Ababa, and about 1,176 charging stations are required to meet demand. The EEU's engagement in the sector is expected to ensure a reliable power supply and help prevent service interruptions.

Abrar said the EEU's first-phase EV charging expansion project is expected to cost around 10 million U.S. dollars and aims to introduce reasonable charging tariffs, with each station capable of accommodating 24 vehicles at the same time.

"During the second phase, the EEU will build similar charging stations in major regional cities, including Bishoftu, Mojo, Adama, Shashemene and Hawassa, as part of the country's efforts to accelerate green mobility, reduce dependence on fossil fuels and ensure a reliable power supply," he said.

Noting that the EEU offers the service at a reduced price of 14 Ethiopian birr (0.09 U.S. dollar) to 18 Ethiopian birr (0.12 dollar) per kilowatt-hour, Abrar said the new charging stations are equipped with battery management systems capable of tracking the status, performance and energy use of EV batteries.

In 2024, the Ethiopian government banned the import of fossil fuel-powered vehicles for personal use while reducing taxes on EVs, a policy that has accelerated EV adoption across the country.

The East African country is rich in renewable energy resources, such as hydro, wind, solar and geothermal power, although only about half of the population has access to electricity.

The Ethiopian Petroleum and Energy Authority issued a directive in March urging citizens to conserve fuel and accelerate the adoption of alternative energy solutions in response to global oil price shocks triggered by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

"We have already secured land to construct the charging stations. By doing so, the EEU is pioneering the development of EV charging infrastructure and encouraging both state-run and private companies to follow suit," Abrar said. ■