Lodwar power project set to replace Ksh900M diesel bill

Lodwar residents could soon bid farewell to the town's expensive reliance on diesel generators as Kenya Power completes a Ksh1.01 billion project to connect Turkana's commercial hub to the national electricity grid. The projects, funded by the national government, include a 66/11kV substation and a 90-kilometre 66kV power line linking Lokichar to Lodwar, expected to provide grid electricity to over 80,000 residents.

Kenya Power's current annual diesel bill of Ksh900 million is nearly equal to the cost of the new power infrastructure. Kenya Power Managing Director Joseph Siror explained that the generators have become costly and challenging to operate due to the high temperatures in Lodwar, leading to frequent breakdowns and power rationing.

The connection to the national grid will offer a more stable electricity supply while reducing the cost of running the generators. Siror stated that the savings from not having to fuel the generators annually would equal the cost of building the line and substation. The project will mark the first time Lodwar is connected to the national grid since independence, ending decades of dependence on local diesel generation.

The new grid connection is expected to provide reliable electricity to homes, businesses, schools, and health facilities, supporting economic activities such as livestock trade, tourism, agribusiness, and mining. The improved supply could also benefit ICT hubs, small businesses, hospitals, and clinics by ensuring reliable power for essential services.

This development comes as Turkana receives wider infrastructure investments, with President William Ruto announcing the extension of the national grid to Lodwar in 2025 as part of efforts to reduce the county's reliance on diesel power.