Electricity producer eyes new deals with lower power tariffs

On the other hand, should the rains fail to materialise then an extension of the fixed contract period can be discussed. This flexibility of contract is one of the main advantages of rentals.  

How long does it take to procure emergency power?

We can mobilise 200MW of capacity within 12 weeks . Following contract award in Kenya , we mobilised equipment needed for the 100 MW temporary power plant from Aggreko’s regional headquarters in Jebal Ali, Dubai .

In Japan, we procured 200 MW, within six weeks following the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. In Uruguay, where we are suppliers for 50MW . 
Which are some of your biggest projects?

We are the provider for the 2012 London Olympic Games. We provided all the power during the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. We are present in 19 of the 27 European Union countries. We are present in over 20 sub Saharan African countries and in different industrial sectors including mining.

Does Africa provide more opportunities for you?

Every year, an average of 56 power cuts/per year is reported and this hampers growth. By 2015, 20 per cent of power plants will be 50 years old and they will need to be replaced. Most of these plants are in the developed world especially the United Kingdom.

Germany has just switched off all their nuclear power plants. In India, for example, would grow its GDP by two per cent if it has adequate power . We want to see more power plants in sub Saharan Africa, Asia and South America.

Africa, Asia and Latin America will face a serious squeeze.

Renewable energy is the source of power the future.

How is your company positioning itself as countries turn to renewables?

Hydro acts as base load for most of the continent including Kenya. This is not good because of emissions per kilowatt hour. The future of power generation is in renewable, but we need thermals because renewable have varied output and not in tune with demand output.

Kenya’s hydrology also have a four year peak and one year of drought. A combination of hydro, solar and wind would be ideal.

zsambu@ke.nationmedia.com