Inthe quest to transform Kenya into a globally competitive, middle-income nation by 2030, the Transmission Grid Expansion Programme emerges as a strategic cornerstone within the national development blueprint, Vision 2030. Anchored in the principles of sustained economic growth and poverty reduction, this initiative recognizes efficient, accessible, and reliable infrastructure as a catalyst for achieving these ambitious goals. The electricity sub-sector, in alignment with the Least Cost Power Development Plan (LCPDP), takes center stage, setting the trajectory for the country’s power generation, network upgrades, and expansion efforts.
Mandated by the Energy Act of 2006, the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) orchestrates a collaborative effort among stakeholders, drawing from various public institutions within the electricity sub-sector. The 20-year rolling plan delineates power demand estimates, a proposed generation sequence, and the requisite network enhancements to efficiently meet demand.
Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) plays a pivotal role in translating this plan into action, identifying priority projects that span over 10,000 km of high voltage lines by 2020, projected to surge beyond 15,000 km by 2030.
In navigating the challenges of financing, KETRACO’s 2015-2020 Strategic Plan underscores the potential of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) as a key lever. The Transmission Grid Expansion Programme, set to roll out an initial 410 km of lines under the PPP model, marks a transformative juncture.
The Transmission Grid Expansion Programme thus emerges as a beacon, illuminating Kenya’s path towards a resilient, dynamic, and energy-abundant
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Beyond mere infrastructure, these transmission lines contribute substantially to network expansion, grid strengthening, and the crucial evacuation of renewable energy, aligning with Kenya’s commitment to sustainable practices. As the first three priority lines set the precedent, this program anticipates a broader impact, laying the groundwork for an additional 2,000 km in the next five years. The Transmission Grid Expansion Programme thus emerges as a beacon, illuminating Kenya’s path towards a resilient, dynamic, and energy-abundant
