The Kenya Electricity Generating Company PLC (KenGen) has been appointed as the implementing agency for the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) under the Kenya Green and Resilient Expansion of Energy (GREEN) program, funded by the World Bank.
BESS is designed to store surplus energy generated from geothermal and variable renewable energy (VRE) sources such as wind and solar within the national electricity infrastructure. With the system serving as a repository, enabling improved electricity service delivery to Kenyans.
“KenGen is honoured to lead the implementation of the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project under the GREEN program, this initiative marks a significant milestone for Kenya’s energy sector,” said KenGen Managing Director and CEO, Eng. Peter Njenga.
The announcement was made during a press conference in Berlin following discussions with African leaders and international organizations at the G20 Compact with Africa conference.
Several key regions in the country are being considered including Central Rift, Coastal Region, Mount Kenya, Nairobi, North Rift, and Western Kenya. With specific project site selection depending on the outcomes of a forthcoming Feasibility Study (FS), conducted by KenGen, in collaboration with designated FS Consultants.
The project was developed in adherence to the World Bank’s Environment and Social Framework (ESF) and its ten Environmental and Social Standards (ESSs).
“KenGen, in collaboration with the Government of Kenya and the World Bank, is committed to the successful execution of the BESS project. This endeavour represents a pivotal step towards achieving a more resilient and sustainable energy future for Kenya,” said Eng. Njenga.
