Kenyan consumers can expect a welcome relief on their electricity bills in the coming months due to rising water levels in the country’s dams, the Cabinet announced in its latest dispatch. The increased water supply will enable greater reliance on affordable hydroelectric power generation.
“In light of this, Cabinet directed that priority be given to the green generation mix in power dispatch, particularly hydroelectricity,” the dispatch stated. “Consequently, it is expected that the resulting benefits of a more affordable energy mix will offer relief to Kenyan consumers as their electricity bills will decrease over this period.”
The respite comes after a prolonged four-year drought ended with abundant rainfall linked to the El Niño weather phenomenon since October 2023. The rains are projected to sustain elevated dam levels until at least October 2024.
“As a consequence of the above-normal rainfall received since October 2023, and in anticipation of the March-April 2024 rains, it is projected that there will be a sustained increase in water levels in Kenya’s dams; resulting in improved generation at major hydroelectric plants up to October, 2024,” the Cabinet noted.
While welcoming the cheaper electricity, authorities are monitoring the risk of potential dam spillovers, particularly in the eastern region where the Masinga and Kiambere dams “are expected to start spilling-over from April 2024; with further spillage anticipated in June 2024.”
“Cabinet observed that there is no imminent danger in the event of regulated spill-overs. Nevertheless, Cabinet urged all Kenyans residing in close proximity to dams and all road users to remain vigilant,” the dispatch cautioned.
The Karumeno Dam in Kiambu County is also expected to spill over. However, the Cabinet assured the public that “there is no imminent danger in the event of regulated spill-overs” and that mitigation infrastructure is in place.
In addition to the cheaper power announcement, the wide-ranging Cabinet dispatch covered issues such as an action plan to control the invasive Prosopis juliflora tree species, reforms in the water sector, national security initiatives, hosting of major international events, and measures to enhance the ease of doing business.
By prioritizing hydroelectricity from the swollen dams, the Cabinet aims to pass on the benefits of this cheaper and greener energy source to Kenyan homes and businesses over the coming months, providing a timely boost to the economy.
