KenGen builds 67MW hydropower plant in Tana River

KenGen new hydroplant will supply power at cheaper rate.

KenGen the power producing company is progressing to build a 67 megawatt (MW) hydropower plant on Tana River. The plan started after 6 yeasr study of the dam.

Most of all the budgeted price of electricity from this firm is Sh10 per unit (US$0.10), while diesel is twice the cost.

The Tana River is channeled to pure in the proposed Karura dam, reducing displacement of communities.

This project will help enhance the national grid stability during times of high electricity demand.

The dam will complement and stabilize other wind solar power plants. In addition, hydropower plants are easy to switch on and off to meet demand.

The Lake Turkana Wind power, with a capacity of 310 MW is complete waiting construction of a transmission line to link it to the grid.

Others wind farms and solar parks are in the pipeline, which will require stabilizers, technically known as picking plants.

Tana River hosts KenGen’s other main hydroelectric plants, including the Seven Forks which comprise Masinga plant, Kamburu power station, Gitaru, Kindaruma plant and Kiambere.

In conclusion, KenGen has a hydropower capacity of 818 megawatts, accounting for half its total power mix. They sells power to electricity distributor Kenya Power for onward sale to homes and businesses.

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