This archive report was first published on 29 October 2019.
Kenya Power has made significant strides in reducing planned electricity shutdowns following the launch of its Live Line maintenance programme on Monday, 28 October 2019.
The programme, which was launched at Stima Club in Ruaraka, is a result of the completion of the pilot phase where over 70 staff were trained to carry out maintenance of live power lines.
During the pilot phase, 8 insulated trucks and 3 digger derricks were acquired, and 32 trucks were flagged off to Kenya Power operational regions across the country.
Teams will now be able to carry out network maintenance on high voltage lines without completely switching off the supply, including changing of rotten poles, repairing broken conductors, and connection of new customers.
Since the commencement of the live line programme, the number of shutdowns has reduced by 40%, according to Kenya Power acting managing director and CEO Jared Othieno.
“The Live Line Programme is a significant infrastructure undertaking to support Kenya’s rising energy demands as it grows and develops. For a long time, our customers have demanded a reliable & stable power supply. I am happy to report that we have listened to them and through the Live Line Programme, we will be able to enhance the stability of power across the country,” said Mr Othieno.
Kenya Power invested Sh720 million in the first phase of the project, focusing on the 11kV, 33kV, and 66kV distribution lines that link homes and businesses to substations.
