Africa In Motion (AIM), in close partnership with Metalot (The Netherlands), Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), and leading Ethiopian institutions, has launched an innovative international collaboration. Together with the Ethiopian Economics Association (EEA), the University of Addis Ababa (AAU), the Ministry of Water and Energy, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, we are exploring cutting-edge solutions to one of Ethiopia’s greatest development challenges: sustainable and reliable energy storage.
This project introduces iron powder technology — a revolutionary method of storing and transporting renewable energy — to help power Ethiopia’s future.
The Challenge
Ethiopia has made remarkable progress in renewable energy generation, notably through the Grand Renaissance Dam, which generates 5,150 MW of hydropower. However, storing and distributing this energy effectively across the country remains a challenge.
- Long-distance power grids are costly and vulnerable.
- Energy demands fluctuate throughout the country.
- Rural areas often remain disconnected from national energy infrastructure.
To meet these challenges, Ethiopia requires innovative, decentralized energy storage solutions that are affordable, scalable, and sustainable.
The Innovation: Iron Powder Energy Storage
Since 2016, Dutch researchers — in collaboration with the European Space Agency and several global partners — have developed iron powder technology as a safe, recyclable, and transportable energy storage solution.
- How it works: Iron powder stores energy by oxidizing (burning) in a controlled, clean process. The energy is released as heat or electricity.
- Recyclable: The oxidized iron can be reduced back into powder and reused indefinitely.
- Flexible: Energy can be stored and transported to any location, enabling local, independent energy hubs.
- Safe and Clean: No CO₂ emissions, nitrogen reducing, circular, and climate-friendly.
This solution provides Ethiopia with a unique opportunity to leapfrog into decentralized, circular, and resilient energy infrastructure.
Project Objectives
- Conduct a comprehensive feasibility study on applying iron powder storage in Ethiopia.
- Develop and implement pilot projects demonstrating the technology in real-world conditions.
- Facilitate bilateral knowledge exchange and student programs between Ethiopian and Dutch institutions.
- Strengthen Ethiopia’s national energy infrastructure.
- Position Ethiopia and The Netherlands as global leaders in innovative, sustainable energy technologies.
Partners Involved
- Africa In Motion (AIM) – Project Initiator & Facilitator
- Ministry of Water and Energy, Ethiopia – Governmental Partner
- Metalot – Technical Lead, Iron Powder Expertise
- Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) – Academic Research Partner
- Ethiopian Economics Association (EEA) – Policy & Research Partner
- Addis Ababa University (AAU) – Academic Exchange Partner
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ethiopia & The Netherlands – Diplomatic Partners
Timeline Overview
| Year | Milestone |
| 2024-2025 | Feasibility Study |
| 2025-2026 | Pilot Implementation |
| 2027 onwards | Scaling Up and Global Deployment |
Expected Impact
- Reliable and affordable energy access
- Decentralized local energy hubs for rural development
- Job creation and skills development
- Knowledge exchange and international academic cooperation
- Economic growth through innovative industries
- Global leadership in clean, circular energy technologies
Africa In Motion’s Role
Africa In Motion serves as the catalyst and connector:
- Bridging African needs with global technological solutions.
- Facilitating government, academic, private sector, and civil society collaboration.
- Ensuring innovations lead to practical benefits for Ethiopian citizens.
- Advancing AIM’s broader mission of sustainable social and economic development in Africa.