Kenya and Tanzania have established a USD 309.0 million electrical transmission line that will see the two countries import and export electricity. The entire transmission line is estimated to be 507.5 km long, with the Kenyan line running from Isinya substation to Namanga covering 93.0 km already complete and set to be commissioned in December.
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Tanzania announced its intention to export electricity to Kenya in 2016. This comes in the backdrop of the 25-year contract signed between Kenya and Ethiopia in November of last year, making Ethiopia the primary supplier of imported electricity in Kenya.
The Kenya and Tanzania line is expected to transfer a capacity of 2,000 megawatts and will allow the two countries to trade any surplus electricity while allowing the two economies to tap into the existing hydropower from Ethiopia. The line is also expected to link the East African electricity pool to that of South African electricity, thereby enabling the sharing of power between the two regions in a bid to boost the power supply.
Kenya’s entry into the Tanzanian electricity pool adds to similar projects done in Djibouti, where KenGen drilled three geothermal wells worth Ksh 709.0 million, Ethiopia and Rwanda. KenGen accounts for at least half of the electricity in the country, mainly from the Olkaria mega geothermal production.
The Kenya-Tanzania electricity line holds tremendous potential for transforming the energy landscape in East Africa. By bolstering energy security, promoting cross-border energy trade, attracting investment, and fostering regional integration, this project represents a significant step towards sustainable development and prosperity. As the launch of the electricity line draws nearer, stakeholders in both countries eagerly anticipate the numerous benefits that this landmark project will bring to the region.
