Kenya Power plans to invest Sh765 million in building two new substations in Kwale and Kilifi counties, as part of its initiative to improve electricity supply and accommodate the rising demand in the Coast region. The company is approaching the final stages of constructing the Bomani 132/33kV substation in Kilifi County, with a total expenditure of Sh455 million.
The recently constructed facility is projected to cater to the rising electricity demand from existing and prospective customers in Kikambala, Vipingo, Kanamai, and Mtwapa. Additionally, there has been a notable increase in industrial and commercial engagement in these areas, with significant enterprises and small to medium businesses extending their reach from Mombasa.
At present, the Kilifi and Bamburi 132/33kV substations are providing service to customers in the region. Kenya Power has indicated that the capacity of these two substations is being strained due to the ongoing increase in electricity demand. The Bomani substation is anticipated to enhance capacity and bolster the reliability of electricity supply for both businesses and residences in the nearby regions.
In Kwale, Kenya Power is on track to finalize the construction of a 33/11kV substation, with an investment of Sh310 million. The Kwale substation will consist of four feeders, or power lines, which will provide electricity to the Kwale County headquarters and surrounding regions, including Kinango, Tiwi, and Kombani.
Kenya Power announced that the Kwale substation will serve as an alternative supply point for customers, thereby enhancing the reliability and resilience of electricity distribution within the county. The reliability of our network and the excellence of our customer service are among our primary focus areas as we fulfill our responsibility to supply electricity for economic development. We are dedicated to completing these projects within the established timelines and budget, thereby delivering value to our customers," stated Dr. (Eng) Joseph Siror, Managing Director and CEO of Kenya Power.
Siror mentioned that the company is undertaking similar initiatives in different areas of the country in its effort to bolster the electricity network and improve the robustness of the national grid. The Company is also executing similar initiatives in regions beyond the Coast, including network reinforcement projects designed to bolster the grid's resilience and deliver quality service to every electricity user," he remarked.
He stated that Kenya Power is adopting technology in its network development initiatives to aid the transition to a smart grid and improve the overall customer experience. The two substations located in the Coast region are projected to support the further growth of residential, commercial, and industrial sectors by providing additional capacity in response to the increasing electricity demand.