Kenya Power Forced to Ration Electricity Supply Amid Shortages

Kenya Power has announced power rationing in parts of the country after a decline in electricity supply from wind and solar plants, leading to disruptions for households and businesses.

According to the company’s Managing Director, Joseph Siror, the shortages become more severe when wind power generation falls sharply.

This is especially during evening peak hours between 6 pm and 10 pm when electricity demand is at its highest.

Siror explained that reduced wind generation creates a power deficit that cannot easily be compensated for by other electricity producers connected to the national grid.

Rationing Measures By Kenya Power

The situation has forced Kenya Power and Lighting Company to ration electricity in some areas to stabilise supply and prevent widespread outages.

Kenya relies significantly on renewable energy, with wind and solar plants supplying a notable share of electricity to consumers.

Among the key facilities affected is the Lake Turkana Wind Power plant, the country’s largest wind farm with a generation capacity of 310 megawatts.

In total, three wind farms and five solar plants account for close to one-fifth of the electricity distributed by Kenya Power.

Also Read: Super Metro Bus Overturns In An Accident Near Kahawa West

Renewable Energy

However, renewable plants currently lack sufficient storage capacity to store excess electricity generated during periods of strong wind or high solar radiation.

This limitation means electricity produced during off-peak hours cannot be stored for later use when demand rises in the evening.

As a result, the country remains vulnerable to fluctuations in weather conditions, which affect renewable energy output.

Also Read: “Itakua Mbaya,” Mbavu the Destroyer Speaks After Landing New Job

Power Interruptions

The power supply interruptions have also increased operational costs for businesses, many of which have been forced to rely on diesel-powered generators to continue with operations during power outages.

Industry players have previously raised concerns over the financial burden caused by unstable electricity supply, particularly for manufacturers and small enterprises that depend on uninterrupted power.

Kenya has, in recent years, expanded investments in renewable energy as part of efforts to promote clean energy generation.

Follow our WhatsApp channel for instant news updates

Kenya power workers working on a power line
PHOTO/Standard