The Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO) has announced the successful restoration of the 400kV Double Circuit Transmission Line, a critical infrastructure project expected to significantly reduce power outages in northern Kenya.
The restoration, valued at Ksh46.13 million and USD 1.59 million (approximately Ksh207 million), was aimed at enhancing grid reliability and facilitating the evacuation of renewable energy from the Lake Turkana Wind Power (LTWP) plant. The line had been disrupted after six transmission towers collapsed near Longonot, undermining the stable supply of wind-generated electricity to the national grid.
To restore full functionality, KETRACO oversaw the replacement of the collapsed towers, re-stringing of conductors, and installation of Optical Ground Wire (OPGW), a vital component for reliable power transmission. The works were undertaken by a private contractor under an agreement signed in November 2024.
The restoration was executed in two phases. The first circuit was energised on September 20, partially reconnecting the line to the grid. The second and final circuit is scheduled for energisation on September 28, restoring the line to its full operational capacity. Once complete, the transmission line will facilitate the evacuation of up to 300 MW from LTWP, strengthening the country’s clean energy supply.
KETRACO noted that the restoration would end reliance on a temporary bypass, which had been vulnerable to frequent collapses. Speaking at the commissioning, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi said the move would provide Kenyans with more affordable and reliable electricity, particularly in underserved northern regions.
The restoration milestone coincided with the appointment of Kipkemoi Kibias as KETRACO’s Acting Managing Director and CEO. Kibias, a registered professional engineer with the Engineers Board of Kenya, is also a corporate member of the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) and serves on the Federation of African Engineering Organisations (FAEO) Nuclear Committee.
