Kenya Power to install 20 transformers in tourist town

Kenya Power workers repair a transformer on the Meru-Makutano road on March 28, 2016. The company will install transformers in North Coast. PHOTO | PHOEBE OKALL | NATION MEDIA GROUP

What you need to know:

  • Also in process is installation of new low and medium voltage lines to ease pressure on the network.
  • Existing transformers and distribution lines will be upgraded in the course of the maintenance project.

Kenya Power will put up 20 transformers in North Coast by June to ensure constant electricity supply and address outages in the area.

North Coast is prone to frequent blackouts that stall activity in the tourist town. Besides the installations, the utility firm will cut and prune trees near power lines and replace broken insulators to ensure supply of power.

Also in process is installation of new low and medium voltage lines to ease pressure on the network. Existing transformers and distribution lines will be upgraded in the course of the maintenance project.

“The current situation has been brought about by a long period of under-investment in the electricity sector. To address the supply challenges currently being faced by our customers, we intend to set aside Sh13 billion in the next financial year to maintain the existing infrastructure across the country, up from Sh11 billion that was budgeted for this financial year,” said Kenya Power Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Ben Chumo.

The Company general manager for network management, Mr Daniel Tare, said the firm will also carry out maintenance on high voltage lines in the area to address supply challenges.

“Our focus will be on the Nyali and Shanzu substations and 12 high voltage lines serving the North Coast area where we intend to carry out intensive maintenance. We will also improve the base generation at the Coast region to between 100 and 120 MW,” said Mr Tare.

The officials spoke at Tamarind Hotel in Mombasa.