| Abstract: | Abstract
This study identifies the major sources of delay in the implementation of
construction projects in the Ethiopian electric utility enterprise. It also
investigates the magnitude of schedule variance and cost overrun experienced
by the Universal Electric Access Program (UEAP)due to implementation
delay. Primary data were generated from 239 individuals working for UEAP
in Amhara, Tigray, Oromia, SNNP, Afar, Gambela, Benshanguel Gumuz,
Harari, and Somali regional states and from Dire Dawa city administration.
Of these, 168 were employees and 71 of them were contractors. Samples were
drawn through stratified sampling procedure. Secondary data were collected
from documents that have information about the 41 project examined. Data
were analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively. Quantitative data were
analyzed using the Relative Importance Index (RII), schedule variance index,
cost performance index and paired t-test. Qualitative data were analyzed
using frequency and percentages as well as qualitative description of
interview responses. The results showed that 28% of the delays are due to
factors related to the employers followed by 23% to factors associated to
contractors. Delay in material supply and redesigning of plans accounted
17% and 12% respectively. The overall average time delay of the 41 projects
was 2.48 years while they were expected to be completed in 8 months. The
projects encountered a 44% cost overrun compared to their initial budget
plans. The paired t-test analysis showed a statistically significant difference
between planned completion time and actual completion time, and planned
budget and budget at completion. Therefore, the major sources of delay
should be the focus of the Ethiopian Electric Utility Enterprise. |
