CS Energy, Wandayi announces Signing of Ksh. 95.68 Billion Energy Deal with Adani Energy Solutions

Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has announced the signing of a Ksh. 95.68 billion (USD 736 million) deal between the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO) and Adani Energy Solutions Limited of India. The agreement will see Adani develop, finance, construct, and operate essential transmission lines and substations across Kenya.

Speaking during the official announcement, CS Wandayi highlighted that the partnership is designed to tackle Kenya's persistent power outages and improve the reliability of electricity access. The project is expected to be a significant boost to the country’s growing economy and industrial ambitions. "These projects are designed to significantly enhance our national electricity infrastructure, ensuring reliable and widespread access to power that will support Kenya’s development goals," he stated.

The ambitious project, fully funded by the private sector, will be managed by Adani for 30 years before transferring the infrastructure to KETRACO. Adani Energy Solutions will raise the necessary funding through a combination of debt and equity. The deal will not require any financial input from the Kenyan government, as it was awarded through a competitive bidding process.

The project includes the construction of several high-voltage transmission lines and substations across key regions of the country:

- Gilgil-Thika-Malaa-Konza 400kV Double-Circuit Line: Spanning 208.73 km, this line will include new substations in Gilgil, Thika, and Malaa, along with extensions at Konza.

- Rongai-Keringet-Chemosit 220kV Line: A 99.98 km line with substations in Rongai, Keringet, and Chemosit.

- Menengai-Ol Kalou-Rumuruti 132kV Line: This line, covering 89.88 km, will serve new substations in Menengai, Ol Kalou, and Rumuruti.

- Lessos 400/220kV Substation: A critical part of Kenya’s 400kV transmission network aimed at improving regional power stability.

- Thurdibuoro 132/33kV Substation: This substation will help expand the distribution grid to underserved areas.

CS Wandayi emphasized the project’s alignment with the government’s objectives to expand electricity access, minimize transmission losses, and address frequent blackouts. The deal is also expected to create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth at the grassroots level.

The signing of this agreement marks the culmination of four months of negotiations, during which KETRACO conducted comprehensive due diligence on Adani Energy Solutions. The project is seen as a major step towards transforming Kenya’s energy landscape and ensuring sustainable, long-term power supply for its citizens and industries.