Energy CS Chirchir explains power connection timelines for new consumers

Energy Cabinet Secretary (CS) Davis Chirchir has shed light on the varying duration it takes to connect Kenyans to the power grid.  

Speaking on Citizen TV's The Big Conversation Show on Thursday, Chirchir emphasized that the timeline for power connectivity largely depends on the availability of existing power infrastructure.

According to Chirchir, if necessary infrastructure is already in place, connection should be immediate following the completion of Kenya Power application processes and payments.

"If the infrastructure has been built, the connection after you've done the due processes of application and payment should be immediate. It can range from a day depending on the infrastructure available," said Chirchir.

The CS however acknowledged the challenges posed by infrastructure development in remote areas.

"If we have to build the infrastructure, it will require surveys, planning for materials, design and deployment. So it (the period) ranges for Kenyans in cosmopolitan areas where the infrastructure is fully developed and those  in remote parts of Kenya."

To further push his point home, Chirchir referenced ongoing power projects like the transmission network expansion from Lodwar to Lokichar where infrastructure development significantly impacts connectivity timelines, particularly in off-grid areas like Lodwar.

Chirchir however highlighted government initiatives like the Last Mile project aimed at enhancing infrastructure access, particularly in rural areas.

He further emphasised the importance of leveraging Kenya Power as a commercial entity rather than solely relying on it as a social service, highlighting the significance of its listing on the stock market.

"The Kenya Kwanza manifesto acknowledges that we need to commercialise Kenya Power. Kenya Power is a listed company where any Kenyan can own shares. If we use it as a social structure it defeats the purpose of listing companies in Kenya for purposes of trading in the stock market," said the CS.