Centum Real Estate (Centum Re) and the Two Rivers International Finance and Innovation Centre (TRIFIC) Special Economic Zone (SEZ) have signed a deal with Distributed Power Africa-Kenya (DPA-K) to more than double solar power production at its Two Rivers Complex to 3.2 Megawatt(MW), up from 1.2MW.
The partners said that this would make the Two Rivers Power Company the largest rooftop solar power installation for residential and commercial use in East Africa.
Two Rivers Power Company is an affiliate of TRIFIC SEZ and Centum Re, which are subsidiaries of the Nairobi Securities Exchange-listed Centum Investment Company PLC.
"This development enhances Centum Re's green credentials as a major property developer and ensures a clean and reliable supply of electricity for the residents of Two Rivers,” said Kenneth Mbae, managing director of Centum Re.
Two Rivers Power Company was established to provide power to the Two Rivers mixed-use development in Nairobi, which includes retail, office and residential space.
Currently, Two Rivers Power Company operates a high-voltage transmission line from Ruaraka to its substation at Two Rivers Mall, where a 1.2MW solar power plant is installed in the mall's car park.
This expansion will increase the solar capacity to 3MW, further enhancing the mall's energy independence.
“This is an important value addition for businesses setting up within the TRIFIC special economic zone as it lowers the cost of power and reduces the carbon footprint, which is becoming an imperative for businesses as the world looks to operate more sustainably,” said Brenda Mbathi, the TRIFIC CEO.
Two Rivers Power Company has a licence to generate and distribute electricity and operates a high-voltage transmission line from Ruaraka to its substation at Two Rivers Mall. The power generated at the substation is currently supported by a 1.2MW solar power plant, which will be expanded to 3.2MW.
DPA-K, a subsidiary of EDF (Électricité de France), specialises in renewable energy solutions that help businesses make the transition to clean energy without upfront costs or operational risks.
“Harnessing the African sun and space creates the greatest opportunity for the continent’s energy transition: Rooftops and empty grounds now become a powerhouse, enabling you to begin saving, securing your energy supply at a predictable price, and focusing on your core business. Imagine every space in your premises generating your own power," said Anthony Mburu, CEO of Distributed Power Africa-Kenya.
