Sh45b solar plant set for Tiaty

Baringo, Kenya: Hundreds of youths from Tiaty sub-county are expected to join gainful employment after a Sh45 billion solar power plant earmarked for Chesirimion becomes operational.

When fully operational, the plant is expected to generate more than 200MW, which be directly connected to the national grid as the country strives to meet her energy obligations.

Tillman Global Holdings, a US company tasked with the project, yesterday made a site visit to the area in the company of Governor Benjamin Cheboi.

The company's Chairman Sachit Ahuja said the project will start once they acquire an operating licence and other documentation from the national government.

"If everything goes as planned, we will complete the project in two years, with the first phase generating 40MW of power," said Mr Ahuja.

For the last few years, the country has been shifting her focus away from over-reliance on hydro-generated electricity power to renewable energy particularly solar and geothermal because of the latter's low costs and ready availability.

It is estimated that with energy demand of more than 3000MW, Kenya currently produces 1,500MW of electricity with 60 per cent of it generated from hydro.

Governor Cheboi said the project will help meet the county's energy needs especially in public institutions like health facilities, schools, water supply facilities and industries.