More than 1,700 households and 11 public facilities on Mageta Island will benefit from a Sh230 million solar mini-grid project under the Kenya Electricity Modernisation Project.
The project, financed by the World Bank and the Strategic Climate Fund’s Scaling-Up Renewable Energy Programme, represents a significant step toward achieving universal access to energy in Kenya.
Poised to revolutionise the local economy and quality of life, the project involves the construction of an 801.9 kilowatts/hour Solar Power Generation Plant, a sub-station. Five transformers with a combined capacity of 700 KVA will also be installed.
A 100Kva standby diesel-powered generator, a 5.5-kilometre medium voltage and 32.2-kilometre low voltage distribution lines are also in the pipeline.
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, while speaking ahead of the official commissioning by President William Ruto on Friday, emphasised the transformation impact this initiative will have on the island’s residents. He described the project as a game changer.
"It not only brings clean, renewable energy to the community but also paves the way for economic growth, improved healthcare, enhanced education, and better security,” he said.
867 customers (49.7% of the targeted 1,744 households) have been connected to the new power grid.
Once fully operational, the project is expected to reduce reliance on kerosene and wood for lighting. It will also improve indoor air quality and reduce pollution.
Electricity will extend business hours, boost small enterprises, and enhance fish storage. Education and healthcare will also see substantial improvements.
"Increased study hours will lead to improved performance in the connected schools. The students can also conduct experiments and other practicals," the CS said.
Wandayi said the local health facilities, including the Magenta Dispensary, will now comfortably store vaccines and other drugs requiring refrigeration.
In addition to these benefits, the project is expected to enhance security on the island and improve lighting in public spaces and streets.
“This project is a testament to our commitment to ensuring the most remote areas of Kenya have access to modern, clean, and reliable energy,” the CS stated.
He added that by harnessing solar power, they are addressing the immediate energy needs and contributing to global climate change.
The solar mini-grid project is part of a broader initiative that includes similar developments on Ngodhe and Takawiri Islands in Homa Bay County, Kaeris and Kerio markets in Turkana County, Dabel Market in Marsabit County, and Wasini Island in Kwale County.
These projects collectively aim to increase electricity access in off-grid areas, supporting Kenya’s goal of universal energy access.
