Lamu County Assembly approves proposed coal-fired Amu Power plant in Manda Bay

LAMU: The county assembly Thursday passed a motion approving the proposed coal-fired Amu Power plant to be set up in accordance with the County Governments Act.

During the session, the Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) said the power project was cleared to go ahead on condition that the pending Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) report addresses all potentially adverse effects of the proposed project.

“We have unanimously approved the concept paper of the Amu Power Coal plant Project in Kwasasi.

“We are aware that the company has engaged the community on its agenda and we have documentary evidence that shows the community was fully involved and consulted about the power plant,” Assembly Chairman for Health, Environment and Sanitation Athman Amin said.

The report should also ensure residents reap benefits such as job and business opportunities.

Amu Power is working closely with leaders, regulators, agencies and administrators  to ensure compliance to relevant laws and regulations, and alignment with localised development plans.

FULLY BACKED

Lands Executive Muthoni Marubu supported the statement by adding: “The assembly has fully backed the motion to approve the coal plant. The Ward Reps were united in passing the motion.”

Gulf Energy Gropu CEO Francis Njogu said during a recent meeting with MCAs that they have to ensure the ESIA study captures the potential effects the plant would have on the environment as well as livelihoods.

The study should also ensure the effects are properly and adequately mitigated.

But Mkomani Ward MCA Ali Abukaar alias Dario said they are still keen to see how the ESIA report will be carried out before any work starts on site.

“We want to be assured on the compensation packages for our people who will be affected by the project and demand that priority in jobs accruing from the venture be given to Lamu people,” he said.

The plant will be set up on Manda Bay and construction will commence later on in the year. It will produce a gross capacity of 981.5MW of electricity equivalent to about 40 per cent of Kenya’s electricity demand.

The company will operate the coal power plant for 25 years.