Inside KETRACO’s Power Project Set to Boost 4 Counties After 14-Year Wait

The Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) has energized the 132 kV Nanyuki-Isiolo Transmission Line.

Speaking during the energization ceremony in Nanyuki, KETRACO Acting Managing Director Eng. Kipkemoi Kibias said the project had been long awaited, with its journey dating back to 2012.

“The journey of this project started in 2012, and despite the challenges, we are happy that today the people of Nanyuki, Isiolo and, by extension, the people of Nyeri, can finally see this long-awaited project come to fruition.”

According to the board, the infrastructure will enhance the stability and reliability of power supply to the people of Isiolo, Meru, Laikipia and the greater Upper Eastern region.

KETRACO added that the project would boost the transmission network, establish a backup power supply network, and increase capacity to cater for an increased demand from the growing agricultural, industrial, commercial and public service sectors.

The board stated that the line will also facilitate the integration and evacuation of future renewable projects in Upper Eastern and Northern Kenya and provide better grid redundancy, security and operational flexibility.

Kibias said the project had already delivered an immediate improvement in voltage levels at the Nanyuki Substation.

“Immediately upon energization, the voltage at Nanyuki Substation improved from 123kV to 130kV. That is an immediate benefit of this project,” he said.

The 77-kilometre project includes the installation of a new 132kV substation at Isiolo and work to expand the existing Nanyuki Substation.

Approximately 4.2km of the transmission line closer to Nanyuki is being shifted from Overhead line (OHL) to underground cable due to security issues at the Laikipia Air Base.

The project will deliver an alternate feed of power to Nanyuki, Kutus, Meru, Ishara, Kieni, Kiganjo and Isiolo, enhancing reliability and minimizing the risk of interruptions.

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Kenya’s Green Energy Milestone

KETRACO Board Director Mercylynate Relich, who spoke on behalf of the Board Chairperson, also explained that the project marked a milestone in reinforcing Kenya’s power network.

“The energization of the Nanyuki-Isiolo Transmission Line marks a significant milestone in advancing the Government’s green energy agenda, strengthening the national grid and extending reliable electricity access to previously underserved regions,” Relich said.

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KETRACO’s Transmission Projects

Kibias added that KETRACO was also working to implement transmission projects that were stalled and to increase the capacity in the Mount Kenya area.

“We want to realize the project that was initially started, connecting Loiyangalani, Marsabit and Isiolo, which will further boost voltage in the region,” he said.

The company indicated they will energize the 132 kV Nanyuki-Rumuruti Transmission Line in three weeks.

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KETRACO Acting Managing Director Kipkemoi Kibias/KETRACO