Ketraco has initiated the Nairobi Ring Associated Sub-stations project, a key infrastructure effort to address escalating electricity demand in the capital region. The initiative involves constructing four 220/66kV substations in Isinya, Kimuka (Ngong), Athi River, and Malaa to relieve pressure on overloaded existing facilities.
Managing Director Fernandes Barasa emphasized the project's dual purpose: reinforcing the eastern grid network while establishing a 400kV transmission line to bypass Nairobi from the west. This western corridor will serve as the foundation for a regional 400kV grid connecting Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania, initially operating at 220kV capacity.
Barasa stated the project would enhance power reliability, attract investment, and drive economic growth. "It will ensure uninterrupted supply in Nairobi and stimulate social and economic development," he said. The plan also includes strengthening connections from geothermal plants in Olkaria, the Lake Turkana wind farm, and Mombasa thermal stations to the national grid.
Historically, Nairobi's power supply relied on Tana River hydro stations via Juja and Dandora substations, as well as a 132kV link to Uganda's Jinja through Lessos. The city's connection to Olkaria via a 1998 line was upgraded in 2004 to improve capacity.
