Electricity access is set to be enhanced in 14 arid and semi-arid counties following the signing of a Ksh 10 billion deal between Kenya Power, Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC) and the World Bank to finance renewable energy projects.
The agreement, which is part of the Kenya Off-Grid Solar Access Project, will involve construction of 113 mini solar grids over the next 12 months.
A mini-solar grid is a small-scale electricity network that harnesses solar energy to power households and businesses.
Considered a cost-effective solution, solar mini-grids are key in powering rural areas that are too remote for the national grid.
The project targets to power 1.2 million people in the North Eastern region.
Additionally, diesel-powered stations are being hybridized with solar PV systems, with plans underway to install an extra 8MW of solar power in Wajir County.
The counties of Turkana, Marsabit, Samburu, Isiolo, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Kwale, and Narok will further benefit from stand-alone solar systems at a cost of Ksh 438 million, ensuring public facilities and schools have access to electricity.
Moreover, 316 solar-powered water pumps for boreholes, valued at Ksh 1.6 billion, are in the final stages of procurement.
