Lodwar set for historic national grid connection after independence

Lodwar town, located in Turkana County, is set to be connected to Kenya's national electricity grid for the first time since the country gained independence. This significant development, spearheaded by Kenya Power, will bring clean, reliable, and stable electricity to over 80,000 residents in the region. Two government-funded projects, a 66/11kV Lodwar substation and a 90-kilometre, 66kV transmission line linking Lokichar to Lodwar, are nearing completion and will cost a combined KSh1.01 billion.

The new connection will replace the region's reliance on diesel-powered generators, which have long been a source of frustration for the people of Lodwar and its environs. These generators, operated by Kenya Power, have been plagued by frequent breakdowns and power rationing, especially during the extreme temperatures prevalent in the area.

Dr. Joseph Siror, Kenya Power's Managing Director and CEO, highlighted the need for a more reliable electricity supply. He explained that diesel generators are less effective in high-temperature conditions and that their continuous operation leads to breakdowns, causing inconvenience to the residents.

The transition to grid electricity will have far-reaching benefits for the community. In addition to improving electricity reliability, the project is expected to curb emissions associated with fossil fuel-powered generation, thereby contributing to environmental sustainability. Furthermore, the improved electricity supply will stimulate economic activity in various sectors such as livestock trade, tourism, agribusiness, and mining.

Social benefits include enabling children to study for longer hours, supporting ICT hubs and small and medium-sized enterprises, and ensuring hospitals and clinics can preserve vaccines and other essential medical supplies.

Once the projects are completed, the financial savings from the transition to grid electricity are projected to be significant. The annual diesel expenditure of KSh900 million is almost equivalent to the cost of building the new power line and substation. This makes the switch to grid electricity a cost-effective solution in the long run. The grid connection, therefore, represents not only an infrastructure milestone but also a catalyst for economic growth and improved quality of life in Turkana County.