KETRACO energizes Sondu transmission line to boost power supply in Nyanza

According to the energy transmitters, the development means reduced technical power losses in the region, enhanced high-voltage power capacity to support industrial growth, and improved stability and reliability of electricity supply in the South Nyanza region.

Additionally, the line will provide an alternative route for the evacuation of electricity from Sondu and Sang’oro power stations.

The 132kV Sondu–Homabay Transmission project involved the construction of approximately 69 kilometres of a 132kV Sondu–Ndhiwa single circuit transmission line and a loop-in to Sondu and Sangoro power stations.

Electricity supplied to Homa Bay and Ndhiwa currently comes from Kisumu via Muhoroni and Chemosit, a transmission route that is over 200 km long. The Sondu Homa Bay Line directly link Sondu to Ndhiwa, covering only 69 km, which will significantly shorten the distance.

Power supply to the region is through Kisumu-Muhoroni Transmission Line, which is overloaded. While the line is rated at 81 MW, the region’s demand is approximately 120 MW. To prevent system instability, about 20 MW is shed every evening.

The new Sondu–Homa Bay Transmission Line aims to relieve this overload and ensure greater stability and reliability of power supply. The project will additionally improve power in Kericho County via Sotik-Chemosit-Kisii Transmission Line.

The scope of work included detailed design, supply of materials, installation, testing, and commissioning of the transmission line.

KETRACO Acting Managing Director, Eng. Kipkemoi Kibias, noted that the energization of the line will significantly improve power stability in the region and emphasized the need for public safety, urging members of the public occupying the transmission corridor to relocate in order to prevent the risk of electrocution.

“The energization of this line marks a major milestone in improving power stability in South Nyanza. From the outset, we engaged the community and advised those who had put up structures along the transmission corridor to relocate for their own safety. The safety of the public remains a priority. This project is designed to serve and benefit the wider region.” Said KETRACO Ag. MD Eng. Kipkemoi Kibias.

The project is being implemented under a contract period running from 30th May 2024 to 30th May 2026, spanning 24 months, at a total contract price of KSh 692,875,725.60 fully financed by the Government of Kenya.