Ketraco to invite bids for power next week

A State-owned power transmission company is to undertake its first major assignment next week as the country makes strides into harnessing and distribution of additional power to meet national needs.

The Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (Ketraco) which was set up last December will on Monday invite bidders to the proposed sites for the construction of the 400 kilo volt (kv) and the 220 kvs transmission lines between Nairobi and Mombasa.

The higher voltage line which will cost Sh18 billion will also connect the coastal towns of Rabai-Tsavo and Embakasi in Nairobi.

The government has secured a loan from the African Development Bank (ADB), Agence Francaise de Developement (AFDB) and the European Investment Bank (EIB) towards the cost of the 400kv transmission line project.

Vested interest

Energy ministry officials say the loan will be used to fund the design, manufacture, supply and erection of the 400kv and 220kv transmission lines.

Ketraco is a new entity established to own the new transmission assets.

However, the operation and maintenance of these assets will be undertaken by KPLC under a management contract.

KPLC has developed all of the country’s transmission infrastructure to date.

“KPLC has a vested interest in ensuring that the new transmission line is properly maintained as it is the ultimate user of the infrastructure to provide electricity services to its customers, “ read a project brief seen by the Business Daily.

Last month, the 90-megawatts power plant was successfully synchronised to the national grid following successful production from its first unit.

The output was realised three months ahead of schedule while the start up and testing of all 5 diesel engine units has proceeded successfully and now nears completion.  

Rabai is now able to supply power to the national grid at a time when the country continues to experience acute power shortages owing to the drought affecting hydro power generation.

The Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen), is putting up a third power generating plant at Kipevu, Mombasa at an estimated cost of Sh1.05billion.

According to Energy minister, Mr Kiraitu Murungi another 400 kv line will be built northwards to import electricity from Ethiopia, at a cost of Sh29 billion.