Kenya Power is investing Sh765 million in the construction of two new substations in Kwale and Kilifi counties as the utility moves to strengthen electricity supply and meet rising demand in the Coast region.
The company is nearing completion of the Bomani 132/33kV substation in Kilifi County, which is being constructed at a cost of Sh455 million.
The new facility is expected to serve the growing electricity demand from existing and upcoming customers in Kikambala, Vipingo, Kanamai and Mtwapa.
The areas have experienced increased industrial and commercial activity in recent years, with large enterprises and small and medium-sized businesses expanding their operations from Mombasa.
Currently, customers in the areas are served by the Kilifi and Bamburi 132/33kV substations. Kenya Power said the capacity of the two substations is coming under pressure as electricity demand continues to rise.
The Bomani substation is therefore expected to provide additional capacity and improve the reliability of electricity supply to businesses and households in the surrounding areas.
In Kwale, Kenya Power is also set to complete construction of a 33/11kV substation at a cost of Sh310 million.
The Kwale substation will comprise four feeders, or power lines, that will supply electricity to the Kwale County headquarters and neighbouring areas, as well as Kinango, Tiwi and Kombani.
The new facility is expected to ease pressure on the Diani substation, which currently serves the areas.
Kenya Power said the Kwale substation will also provide alternative supply points for customers, helping improve the reliability and resilience of electricity distribution in the county.
“Network reliability and customer service excellence are one of our key focus areas as we undertake our role to provide electricity for economic growth. We are committed to ensure that these projects are completed within the set timelines and budget, to provide value to our customers,” said Kenya Power Managing Director and CEO Dr (Eng) Joseph Siror.
Siror said the company was implementing similar projects in other parts of the country as it seeks to reinforce the electricity network and improve the resilience of the national grid.
“Beyond Coast region, the Company is also undertaking similar projects in other areas across the country, including network reinforcement projects to improve the resilience of the grid and to provide quality service to all electricity users,” he said.
He added that Kenya Power was incorporating technology into its network development plans to support the transition towards a smart grid and improve customer experience.
The two Coast region substations are expected to support further expansion of residential, commercial and industrial activity by providing additional capacity as electricity demand continues to grow.
