The Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) has launched a major grid upgrade initiative under Phase 2 of the Kenya Green and Resilient Expansion of Energy (GREEN) Programme, with financial backing from the World Bank.
The project aims to strengthen grid stability while supporting the integration of both regional hydropower and Kenya’s growing domestic renewable energy capacity. A central feature of the programme is the deployment of advanced grid stabilisation technologies, including Static Synchronous Compensators (STATCOMs) and other reactive power systems. These will be installed at the Suswa converter station and the Rabai substation near Mombasa, targeting improved voltage control and more reliable electricity supply particularly in areas affected by long transmission distances.
READ: Zambia to construct two set cross-border energy pipelines
STATCOM installation
The upgrade has become increasingly important due to rising electricity flows from the Ethiopia–Kenya interconnector. While the interconnector is key to regional power trade, operating it above 200 MW without adequate system support can lead to voltage instability and increase the risk of outages. The planned STATCOM installations will deliver fast, dynamic voltage regulation, helping to maintain grid balance and enhance overall network performance.
The project is structured in two components. The first includes the installation of mechanically switched shunt busbar reactors alongside a 120 MVA STATCOM at Suswa. The second involves adding a shunt capacitor and a 120 MVAr STATCOM at Rabai. Together, these upgrades are expected to reduce reliance on costly fossil fuel-based generation currently used to stabilise the grid.
Alongside infrastructure works, KETRACO is seeking experienced consulting firms to support project delivery. The selected consultant will handle design reviews, construction supervision, and capacity building for KETRACO’s technical staff. The consultancy contract is expected to run for at least 18 months, with applicants required to demonstrate over 15 years of experience in high-voltage substation projects. Proposals must be submitted by March 31, 2026. Overall, the initiative marks a significant step in reinforcing Kenya’s transmission network and advancing its long-term objective of a stable, efficient, and low-carbon energy system.
