Celebrating its 17-year journey in Africa, Shanghai Electric (SEHK:2727, SSE:601727) is proud to have contributed to the industrialization and development of the region’s power infrastructure.
Since 2007, the company has successfully completed 28 power supply projects across African countries, constructing 1,457.16 kilometers of transmission lines and 51 power plants and substations.
These achievements have delivered reliable electricity to millions, driving industrial progress and improving livelihoods in the vivid Africa.
“Industrialization in Africa is spurring unprecedented growth in energy demand. The foundation of power supply is not only critical to development but also to ensuring people’s livelihoods. Shanghai Electric is honored to collaborate with African partners to build a modern and thriving continent,” said Yang Xinghai, a senior executive at Shanghai Electric.
Powering Africa: A Journey of Growth and Innovation
Over the past 17 years, Shanghai Electric has expanded its footprint from North Africa to East and West Africa, developing and highlighting a diverse range of transmission and distribution projects, among others:
- Djibouti’s Railway Electrification (2014): Shanghai Electric constructed a 230kV substation and 83.85 kilometers of transmission lines to supply power to the Addis Ababa-Djibouti railway. By offering an innovative dual-end power source solution, the project ensured efficient and reliable electricity for railway operations. Additional contributions in Djibouti include multiple substation upgrades and expansions, including the Doraleh Substation, Ghoubet Substation, Marabout Substation, and Palmeraie Substation transformer expansion projects, as well as the 63KV high-voltage line linking the capital’s two main stations (Boulaos and Marabout).
- Ethiopia’s Transmission Network (2008): Shanghai Electric has delivered eight major EPC projects in Ethiopia, including the BBDA 400kV transmission line project, Renaissance Dam transmission systems, and the Ethiopia-Djibouti railway power supply. The cumulative effort includes 1,115 kilometers of high-voltage transmission lines and 11 substations.
- Angola’s Urban Revitalization (2020): Shanghai Electric modernized the medium- and low-voltage power grids in Huambo and Caála, benefiting one million residents and over hundreds of enterprises with improved and stable electricity access.
- Nigeria’s Grid Modernization: In Lagos, Shanghai Electric upgraded ten aging substations, significantly enhancing the reliability of electricity for both residential and commercial users. Additionally, it completed two critical 330/132kV and 132/33kV substations, Egbin Substation and Makogi Substation, in northern Nigeria, benefiting over 500,000 residents.
Building Local Capacity and Creating Opportunities
Shanghai Electric recognizes the importance of investing in local talent to support Africa’s long-term industrialization goals. In Ethiopia alone, the company has trained over 500 technicians and workers since 2008, equipping them with skills in installation, testing, and operations.
This hands-on training has empowered local workers with expertise, improving their competitiveness and contributing to the country’s power sector development.
Beyond workforce development, Shanghai Electric actively employs local talents, generating significant employment opportunities and fostering economic growth.
Through these initiatives, workers gain practical experience in advanced engineering and project management, laying a strong foundation for their future careers.
Ethiopian team member Natnael Girma Moges, a customs clearance officer who joined Shanghai Electric in 2012, reflected on his experience: “Being part of this team is deeply rewarding. Every project we complete brings positive change to my community and my country.”
As Africa continues its journey toward achieving the African Union’s Agenda 2063, Shanghai Electric remains committed to providing innovative energy solutions and fostering sustainable development.
By working closely with local governments and industry partners, Shanghai Electric envisions a brighter, electrified future for Africa.
