By Sihle Qekeleshe, Web Editor on January 26, 2021

Kipeto wind farm – Kenya’s second-largest wind power project – is now connected to the national grid.

Kipeto Energy Plc (KEP) linked the plant to the grid – operated by Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (Ketraco) – at the Isinya Substation via a 17-km, 220KV high voltage transmission line.

The 100MW wind farm, which is expected to start generating power next week, comprises 60 wind turbines with a respective capacity of 1.7MW. The turbines will be activated in stages to allow for a steady ramp-up process and commercial testing, which is expected to be completed within the next few months.

“First and foremost, I would like to thank the local community for their ongoing support of this project, which has been paramount from day one,” said Dr. Kenneth Namunje, Chairman and Director of KEP. “Now, with the assistance of Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) and Ketraco, we’re delighted that this final connection and energization sees the transmission line and associated equipment being handed over this week to KPLC for future care and operation.”

The Kajiado county-located wind farm is expected to generate 100MW of clean power for distribution through a 20-year Power Purchase Agreement with KPLC, in turn powering approximately 250,000 Kenyan households and representing a critical step toward achieving Kenya’s Vision 2030 and Big Four Agenda.