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Kenya’s electricity transmission systems operator is increasing the country’s grid circuit length and replacing older lines built on timber poles.
Several projects are currently being worked on as Kenya looks to improve its electricity network.
Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) CEO John Mativo confirmed on social media that the company is constructing a new double circuit 132kV Rabai Bamburi Kilifi line to replace the older line that was built on timber poles.
“Due to age and environmental challenges, the existing line has had numerous challenges affecting power reliability. The North Coast industries, hospitality sector and residents from Kilifi, Vipingo, Mtwapa, Shanzu to Bamburi will get more reliable supply with added capacity.”
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Mativo said by the end of this financial year “we plan to have increased the grid circuit length by 6,800km since incorporation; moving the national grid from the pre-KETRACO 3.400km to 10,200km.”
Another project underway is the construction of the 94km, 132kV Isinya-Namanga Transmission Line.
KETRACO said the benefits of the project include:
Another project expected to increase electricity supply is the construction of the 400kV Kenya-Tanzania Interconnector, which is at 93% completion.
The project aims to:
In September, Kenya received financing from the African Development Bank and Korean Exim Bank toward the cost of the implementation of the Kenya Transmission Network Improvement Project (KTRNIP).
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The US International Trade Administration said Kenya’s power sector has experienced steady growth over the past two decades.
“Moreover, Kenya has remarkable renewable resources as evidenced by its track record as one of the lowest cost developers of geothermal power in the world.
“Kenya has also aggressively tried to increase access to the power grid, having more than doubled electricity access from 32% in 2013 to 75% of households in 2022.” ESI
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