Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) is now on board, having formally signed the PPP agreement. This collaboration will advance the design, finance, construction, operation and maintenance of two large-scale high-voltage high-capacity electricity transmission lines. The project began as a private, unsolicited proposal back in 2018. Today, it is a powerful driver of the country’s energy infrastructure progress.
The project has a total value of $311 million. The private sector would fund, build and operate it altogether, with no risk of taxpayer dollars ever being spent. This initiative is crucial for enhancing the reliability of the electricity grid, integrating renewable energy sources, and reinforcing power supply across Western and Northern Kenya.
Project Overview and Development
The project encompasses two major transmission corridors. The first corridor consists of a roughly 180-kilometer, 400kV double-circuit line from Lessos to Loosuk. This new corridor will add a new Lessos 400/220kV substation and a 400kV switch station at Loosuk.
The second corridor consists of roughly 72 kilometers of 220kV double-circuit line that links Kibos to Kakamega and Musaga. This corridor is home to some transformative infrastructure achievements. Specifically, there is a 2×45 MVA, 220/33kV substation at Kakamega and a 2×90 MVA, 220/132kV substation at Musaga.
Besides addressing Kenyans’ energy needs, this project aligns closely with Kenya’s Least Cost Power Development Plan. In addition, it complements KETRACO’s Transmission Master Plan and demonstrates the government’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions.
Strategic Importance
The addition of these high-capacity transmission lines and smart, new substations will lead to improved grid reliability throughout the many states and regions that benefit from their output. Beyond that though, they’ll be crucial to making it possible to add renewable energy to our national grid.
Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Energy Opiyo Wandayi underscored the importance of having such a partnership. He stated,
“This partnership between KETRACO and Africa50-PowerGrid consortium demonstrates the strength of Kenya’s investment environment and the confidence of global partners in our energy agenda.”
As the project moves forward, it is projected to meet the increasing energy needs of Kenya’s people and growing economy. By strengthening grid power supply in Western and Northern Kenya, it aims to facilitate economic development efforts throughout these diverse regions.
“We are not only accelerating access to reliable and affordable electricity, but also laying the foundation for industrialisation, job creation, and inclusive economic growth. This is how we turn policy into progress.”
Future Outlook
The successful execution of the project will bring electricity access to millions. Complementing this effort, it will seed thousands of local job opportunities and catalyze long-term industrial growth. KETRACO works with private investors to address the country’s energy needs in a comprehensive manner. This unique partnership provides the ideal climate for investment.
The successful execution of the project will not only improve electricity access but also create opportunities for local employment and stimulate industrial growth. The collaboration between KETRACO and private investors exemplifies a proactive approach to addressing the country’s energy challenges while fostering a conducive environment for investment.