KenGen: High water levels boost output, could lower electricity costs

Kenyan households and businesses could see lower electricity costs after KenGen reported increased hydropower generation driven by high water levels across major dams.

In a statement on Thursday, KenGen said strong reservoir levels at the Seven Forks dams and other hydro stations have lifted electricity output.

This has reduced pressure on the grid and cut reliance on expensive thermal power, with the company producing 11.7 million kilowatt-hours as at April 28 above the projected 10.95 million kilowatt-hours.

The Eastern block generated the largest share at about 9.13 million kilowatt-hours, beating its projection of 8.05 million.

Reservoir readings showed the hydro system is operating near optimal levels with all levels above the minimum required for power generation.

Masinga stood at 1,056.54 meters, Kamburu reached 1,006.07 meters, Gitaru hit 923.69 meters and Kindaruma recorded 780.28 meters, indicating a stable and reliable supply of hydropower across the system.

“Strong reservoir levels averaging about 99 per cent of operating capacity position us to continue maximising hydropower generation,” acting managing director and CEO Ahmed Issack said.

He added that hydropower remains “the cheapest sources of electricity on Kenya’s grid,” noting that this allows the country to reduce reliance on costly thermal generation.

KenGen said maintaining high hydro output helps moderate power costs and protects consumers and industries from sudden price increases.

The company also said it supports grid stability and strengthens renewable energy supply.

At the same time, KenGen addressed concerns from communities living downstream, assuring the public that it has a strong water management programme in place and that high dam levels do not mean uncontrolled flooding.

It said the water management system keeps reservoirs within safe operating ranges at all times.

“The combination of healthy reservoir levels, prudent water management and reliable hydropower generation enables us to sustain affordable, clean electricity,” Issack said, adding that the company remains committed to protecting downstream communities.