Counties

Private firm signs deal to build Sh4b solar plant in Tharaka-Nithi

solar

Tharaka-Nithi Governor Samuel Ragwa. A private company has signed a 25-year deal with Tharaka-Nithi government to establish a Sh4 billion solar plant at Kabariange. FILE PHOTO | NMG

A private company has signed a 25-year deal with Tharaka-Nithi government to establish a Sh4 billion solar plant at Kabariange Village, Chuka/Igambang’ombe Sub-County.

Midlands Solar Energy Limited Chief Executive Officer Wainaina Kenyanjui and Governor Samuel Ragwa signed the deal on Thursday at the site that is expected to produce 90 megawatts of electricity.

Mr Kenyanjui said the plant will produce 40 megawatts in the first phase while phase two will include a 50MW power plant at a cost of Sh12 billion.

Mr Kenyanjui said the project whose work is expected to start in three months and completed within one year, is projected to employ 2,500 skilled and unskilled youths.

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Feasibility study

“We have completed the feasibility study and all is now set to start the project that will take approximately one year to complete,” said Mr Kenyanjui.

He said five per cent of the net profits will be remitted to the county government.

Mr Kenyanjui said apart from boosting government revenue, the project, which is expected to be one of the largest solar power plant in Kenya, will spur growth of micro enterprises with improved agricultural and livestock businesses.

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