(Kisumu) – The Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) has restored operations at the Muhoroni gas turbine power plant, injecting an additional 60 megawatts into the national grid to improve power stability in Kenya’s western region. The project is part of the government’s commitment to enhancing reliable electricity access, with the goal of ending frequent power outages that have affected homes and industries in the area.
During a visit to the Sondu-Miriu power plant in Kisumu County, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi emphasized that reviving the Muhoroni plant is one of several key initiatives aimed at improving power supply and stimulating economic development across the region. The revival of the plant, he explained, is intended to ensure a stable and sufficient power supply, especially important for regional industries and communities that rely on consistent access to electricity.
To further strengthen the power infrastructure in the region, the government is advancing the construction of the Sondu-Ndhiwa transmission line. This project, currently in the early stages, is expected to increase power capacity for both residential and industrial needs upon completion. The Awendo-Masaba power line has already been finalized and will soon be powered to deliver electricity to thousands of households, marking a significant improvement in energy accessibility for residents in that area.
| Project | Status | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Muhoroni Gas Turbine Plant | Operational | Adds 60 MW to stabilize supply |
| Sondu-Ndhiwa Transmission Line | In formative stages | Will enhance regional supply |
| Awendo-Masaba Power Line | Completed, powering soon | Will serve thousands of households |
| Gogo Power Station Upgrade | Advanced planning | Increase from 2 MW to 8.6 MW |
| Thurdibuoro Substation | Under construction | Ensures uninterrupted supply |
The Gogo Power Station in Migori County is also undergoing upgrades, with plans to expand its capacity from the current 2 megawatts to 8.6 megawatts. A modern substation is being built at Thurdibuoro to ensure an uninterrupted power supply across the region. With these additions, Kenya’s installed power generation capacity now stands at 3,200 megawatts, according to Wandayi.
Additionally, the government is launching a collaborative initiative to establish an irrigation scheme on the lower River Miriu in Kisumu. Although the irrigation project was initially proposed as part of the Sondu-Miriu power plant’s development plan, it has not yet been implemented. To move the project forward, the Ministry of Energy is coordinating with the Ministry of Agriculture, the National Irrigation Authority, and the Kisumu County government.
“This initiative will greatly benefit the regional economy,” said Wandayi, noting that cross-departmental collaboration is crucial for the project’s success. Kisumu Deputy Governor Dr. Mathews Owili expressed his support, highlighting the importance of the irrigation scheme for local food production. Kisumu County currently relies on food imports from other regions, and the irrigation project is expected to make the area more self-sufficient in food production.