In a bid to stabilize electricity costs across the nation, the Kenya Electricity Generating Company PLC (KenGen) has increased hydropower production. This move comes as a response to the highest water levels recorded in the Seven Forks Cascade, facilitating an upsurge in hydropower generation.
Eng. Peter Njenga, KenGen’s Managing Director and CEO, highlighted the significant role played by the Masinga Dam in driving this surge. “We are happy to report that we are receiving very good inflows from the Mount Kenya and Aberdares catchment areas which has led to high water levels at our dams,” Njenga stated, expressing optimism that this will translate into cheaper electricity for Kenyans.
Over the last 24 hours, KenGen’s operational boost at Seven Forks has resulted in power stations achieving a peak output of more than 471MW. Furthermore, the company assured residents living near the dams that there would be no spillage, alleviating concerns about potential environmental impact.
Njenga also reassured the public that despite nearing maximum water levels at Masinga Dam, a robust water management program has prevented spillage. “We however remain vigilant and will issue an alert should we envision a potential water overflow from the large dams,” he added.
This development is particularly significant as Kenyans have been grappling with a surge in electricity costs, with the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) raising fuel and foreign exchange charges. KenGen’s efforts to bolster hydropower production are expected to offer relief to consumers amid these economic challenges.