The Kenya Electricity Generating Company PLC (KenGen) has been tasked the duty of an Implementing Agency for the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project.
The project is part of the Kenya Green and Resilient Expansion of Energy (GREEN) program, funded by the World Bank. The project aims to alleviate energy curtailment and contribute to a more sustainable and secure energy future for Kenya.
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BESS project
BESS is designed to store power generated from renewable sources like solar and wind. The stored energy can be released when needed, contributing to the stability and reliability of the electricity supply. It can be also distributed and support the national grid and other transmission-related services.
KenGen is considering the pilot installation of BESS capacity in key regions, including Central Rift, Coastal Region, Mount Kenya, Nairobi, North Rift, and Western Kenya. The specific project site selection is pending a Feasibility Study (FS) to be conducted by KenGen and designated FS Consultants.
Preliminary findings from the analysis highlight the critical need for BESS within the national electricity infrastructure. BESS will act as a crucial repository for surplus energy generated from geothermal and Variable Renewable Energy (VRE) sources. KenGen has formulated a Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) to ensure effective engagement, public information disclosure, and consultation throughout the project’s lifecycle. KenGen’s Managing Director and CEO, Peter Njenga, emphasized that the BESS project will efficiently store surplus energy, enhancing electricity stability and reliability.
