Egypt Daily News – Dr. Abbas Sharaqi, a Professor of Geology and Water Resources at Cairo University, provided has reported that the Rennaissance dam is nearing completion, with approximately 60% of the electrical work finished and a total storage capacity being reached. Currently, around 54 billion cubic meters (m³) of water have been stored, with 10 billion m³ remaining to reach the final capacity level of 640 meters above sea level.
Dr. Sharaqi noted that two overhead turbines are now operating, following the operation of two others in February and August 2022. As a result, the average daily flow from the dam is approximately 100 million m³, with a significant flow reported on August 24, reaching about 342 million m³ per day. However, this is less than the current potential of the dam, which stands at 500 million m³, however it’s expected to decrease to 400 million m³ in September.
He stated that overflow gates are anticipated to be closed at the beginning of October to maintain the water level at 634 m³ and the existing storage of 54 billion m³. If the turbines continue functioning, the projected monthly water flow from the dam will be around 3 billion m³, meaning the 13 billion m³ stored this year will be utilized within about five months, considering inflows from Lake Tana and smaller tributaries.
Sharaqi emphasized that while Egypt is expected to receive its share of water this year after experiencing shortages in previous years, this should not be construed as acceptance of Ethiopia’s management of the dam. He reiterated the need for dialogue and agreement prior to the initiation of any water projects on the Nile River to safeguard Egypt’s water rights.
