The Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) is seeking an extra 200MW from Marsabit Wind Power Project. This comes after the company seeks to meet the rising electricity demand in Kenya.
Additionally, KenGen has already embarked on feasibility studies in the region as the government gears towards fully phasing out thermal power in the coming five years.
KenGen’s Marsabit Wind Power Project Factsheet
Developer: Kenya Electricity Generating Company PLC (KenGen)
Location: Marsabit County, Kenya
Objective: To increase Kenya’s national grid capacity with an additional 200 MW of clean, renewable wind energy. This is part of KenGen’s strategy to meet rising power demand and move towards 100% green energy.
Key facts:
- Installed capacity: 200 MW (Phase I)
- Total project potential: The site has the potential for further expansion, with plans to eventually increase the capacity to 1,000 MW, which would make it one of Africa’s largest wind farms.
- Energy source: Wind power
- Project status: Feasibility studies are currently underway.
- Timeline: The project is expected to be a key part of KenGen’s 10-year G2G Strategy (2024-2034).
Significance: The project aims to contribute to Kenya’s energy transition, reduce reliance on thermal power. Also, it will help meet the country’s annual power demand, which is rising by 100-120 MW per year.
This came in the wake of reports by the Ministry of Energy that the country’s annual power demand was rising between 100mw and 120mw every year.
How KenGen Seeks to Address the Rise in Electricity Demand in the Country
According to KenGen MD Engineer Peter Njenga, the country’s power demand is on the rise with hydro and geothermal leading in production.
Therefore, in order to address the demand, KenGen is seeking 200mw from Marsabit. Also, there are plans for a solar plant in the region. KenGen hopes to get up to 200mw from wind.
The Managing Director was addressing the press in Olkaria, Naivasha ahead of the three day Sustainable conference. This conference brings on board players in the energy sector.
Furthermore, in matters regarding geothermal energy, Njenga said that KenGen is partnering with Geothermal Development Company (GDC) to get another 200mw from Menengai and 100mw from Baringo.
“In the coming 10 years, from our strategic plan, we are looking at adding 1,500 megawatts to the grid and that will comprise 100 percent of green energy,” said Njenga
Also, rehabilitation of Olkaria I, the oldest geothermal power plant, is underway with plans to increase production from 45mw to 63mw by June next year.
