In a move towards clean energy, Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) is to add 42.5MW of solar energy in the Seven Forks area to scale up Kenya’s green energy deployment in 2024.
The project, expected to last for twenty-eight (28) months, aims to install a 42.5MW solar power plant in the home of the Seven Forks dams where KenGen generates most of its hydroelectricity.
The additional capacity will enhance renewable energy output and cushion Kenyans against the rising cost of power. It will complement hydroelectricity generation during the day and conserve water for electricity generation at night, especially during drought.
Implemented in partnership with the French Development Agency (AFD), this project is the first of its kind for the NSE-listed company, aiming to deliver more renewable energy to the national grid in response to climate change.
The signing ceremony was attended by Principal Secretary (PS) of the State Department for Energy, Alex Wachira, KenGen Managing Director and CEO, Eng. Peter Njenga, French Ambassador to Kenya, HE Arnaud SUQUET, and AFD Country Director, Bertrand Willocquet.
“France is keen on partnering with Kenya in the deployment of renewable energy to stem climate change, for which Kenya has shown its prowess, as demonstrated in the Olkaria Geothermal Field and the Seven Forks area,” Willocquet said.
During the signing, PS Wachira welcomed the move, describing it as a big win for Kenya. “The project will provide affordable, reliable, clean energy, create employment opportunities, and engage the community through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Indeed, Kenya and France have enjoyed longstanding cordial relations, especially in the energy sector, and this cooperation continues to advance our energy infrastructure for the benefit of the great people of Kenya,” he added.
KenGen Managing Director and CEO, Eng. Peter Njenga, described the partnership as timely, emphasizing the company’s commitment to scaling up its renewable energy capacity by adding additional electricity from clean sources, moving Kenya towards a 100% green energy transition.
“As you are aware, KenGen is committed to achieving Kenya’s goal of increasing its renewable energy capacity to 100% by 2030. We have made significant progress towards this goal, and our partnership with AFD has been instrumental in achieving this great milestone. We are now ready to develop our 42.5MW solar power project, adding more renewable energy to the national grid within 28 months,” said Eng. Njenga.
“This project is going to complement hydro during the day when the sun’s intensity will be high, especially during the dry season. That way, we can conserve water for power generation, mostly at night,” he added.