Kenya Power, the national power distributor in Kenya, launched a network upgradation programme aiming to provide better power supply to the country’s industrial consumers
As reported by Kenya’s local media, The Star, the upgrade is expected to target those consumers who contribute up to 60 per cent of its revenue in the ongoing network upgrade worth US$1bn.
The source said that the initiative will involve reform and maintenance of existing network including upgradation of substations, conductors, replacement of rotten wooden poles with concrete and vegetation management along the line of power networks in the country.
Kenneth Tarus, acting managing director of Kenya Power, said that the firm aims to implement a total 252 projects across the country to serve growing numbers of customers. It focuses to increase system efficiency, minimise losses and improve reliability of domestic power supply.
“Improved quality of power supply to industrial customers will eliminate the need for manufacturers to invest in alternative forms of energy whose extra cost is borne by consumers of their products,” Tarus added.
In this project, Kenya Power will be joining with Kenya Association of Manufacturers to prepare technical personnel within industries. The source reported that it will focus to resolve internal challenges that can be undermining quality of electricity supply.
According to the source, the national power distributor spent US$28mn to spread its network in various parts in Kenya including Webuye, Siaya, Bondo, Eldama Ravine, Marigat, Malindi, Kabarnet, Nyeri and Nakuru areas. In addition, the national power distributor is also planning to construct additional feeders to industries, in order to make the network flexible by eliminating the need for shutdown during maintenance.
The company said that the customers will be able to enjoy multiple sources of supply through this initiative.
