Kenya Launches Tender for 42.5MW Solar PV and 3MW/4.5MWh Storage Project at Seven Forks

Kenya Electricity Generating Company PLC (KenGen) has officially invited applications for initial selection for the implementation of a major renewable energy initiative: the Seven Forks Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Power Project. The project is being financed by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), with a focus on expanding Kenya’s renewable energy infrastructure through a Design and Build contract.

Project Scope and Funding
KenGen, a government-owned power utility, has secured funds from AFD to support the construction of a 42.5 MWac solar PV power plant. This initiative also includes the deployment of a 3 MW / 4.5 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), construction of a High Voltage (HV) substation, a 132 kV transmission line, and associated civil and local works. The project site is situated about 150 kilometers northeast of Nairobi, close to the Kamburu Dam in Embu County

Application Process and Deadline
KenGen is seeking to pre-qualify up to seven applicants who will then be invited to participate in the bidding process for the Design and Build contract. Eligible firms are encouraged to download the complete Initial Selection documents from KenGen’s website: https://tenders.kengen.co.ke.

Interested applicants must deliver their submissions by 29 July 2025 at 10:00 a.m. East Africa Time (EAT).

The opening of applications will occur the same day at 10:30 a.m. EAT, in a public session. Late submissions may be rejected. Clarification requests can be submitted up to 14 days before the deadline, and updates will be posted on the KenGen website

Technical and Financial Requirements

• Applicants must demonstrate strong technical expertise and financial capacity. Specific qualifications include:
• A minimum average annual turnover of USD 100 million over the past three years.
• Access to at least USD 13 million in liquid financial resources.
• Experience in executing similar utility-scale solar PV projects, including BESS integration and HV infrastructure.
• ISO certifications (9001, 14001, 45001) and adherence to environmental and social standards

KenGen’s emphasis on environmental, social, health, and safety (ESHS) compliance and local capacity building is reflected in the stringent eligibility and qualification criteria.

This project aligns with Kenya’s strategy to boost renewable energy output and reduce carbon emissions. It reinforces KenGen’s commitment to sustainability, with over 80% of its power generation currently sourced from renewables.

For firms aiming to lead in Africa’s renewable energy transformation, the Seven Forks project offers a significant opportunity to participate in a high-impact national infrastructure endeavor.