Kenya Renewable Energy: Plans to Build a 1000MW Wind Power Plant

The Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen), the nation’s leading power generating company accounting for over 65% of total production, plans to develop a 1000MW wind power plant in Marsabit within northern Kenya.  The first phase, with an initial capacity of 200MW, is expected to be operational in 2028 with additional phases to follow as the expected national energy demand increases.  KenGen is currently in discussions with the French Development Agency (AFD), which has expressed interest in financing the project following the results of a feasibility study conducted by French consultancy firm Sofreco.  KenGen has indicated that the project costs will be financed with 75% debt and 25% equity ratio, with AFD expected to provide most of the funding.  

Kenya’s energy sector growth in the last decade stands as a success story due to the high level of renewable energy adoption that today accounts for over 90% of its installed capacity, with the renewable energy mix comprising of hydro, wind, geothermal, solar and biomass.  The Government of Kenya has committed to achieving a 100% renewable energy grid by 2030.  Wind power currently accounts for 14% of the total installed capacity at 436MW yet it is estimated the country’s untapped wind potential exceeds 4600MW.

The Commercial Service in Kenya (CS Kenya) expects KenGen to call for expressions of interest for both the Owner’s Engineer and an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) firm early 2025. U.S. EPCs and energy equipment suppliers are well-regarded for their reliable and innovative solutions and technologies, such as engineering design, project management, software solutions, and switches as well as after sale support service, positioning them to be competitive in the energy production and distribution market. In addition, CS Kenya has strong relationships within KenGen and will seek additional information for interested parties.  

For more information, please contact Commercial Specialist Mary Masyuko at:  Mary.Masyuko@trade.gov.