High-Level Meeting in Ethiopia Advances Waste-to-Energy Project
A significant milestone was achieved in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where key project developers and government representatives convened to discuss a new waste-to-energy initiative. Attendees included Waste to Energy International (WTEI), represented by Management Board Member Igor Gergel; Covenant Engineering (CE), led by CEO Kalkidan Gashawtena; NestLark, represented by Almaz Rakhmatullin; officials from the Addis Ababa City Municipality; leadership from the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Direction; the Waste Management Agency; and Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP).

Kalkidan Gashawtena and Igor Gergel delivered a comprehensive project presentation. WTEI’s segment covered Ethiopia’s regional waste challenges, provided an overview of global thermal treatment technologies, and described their suitability for local conditions. The discussion also addressed economic factors, comparisons with European waste-to-energy facilities, potential solutions, and the government support necessary for successful implementation. Furthermore, WTEI introduced various investment structures interested in financing the project, outlining the criteria international investors typically require in alternative energy ventures.

Covenant Engineering presented a professional study of municipal solid waste in Addis Ababa. The waste sampling was conducted locally, while morphological analysis, moisture determination, and higher heating value (HHV) testing were performed in a German laboratory.

During the ensuing dialogue, government participants reaffirmed their commitment to the project and identified immediate steps for its advancement. A cooperation was established between the PPP Direction and EEP to develop a competitive tariff structure capable of attracting private investment.

On the sidelines of the event, WTEI’s Management Board Member held detailed discussions with the leadership of the PPP Direction, Waste Management Agency, and EEP’s Deputy CEO. These exchanges secured a mutual understanding of the essential components of governmental support, bringing the project closer to realization.
