KETRACO Energizes 132kV Sondu–Homa Bay Transmission Line to Boost Power Stability in South Nyanza

Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) has energized the 132kV Sondu (Thurdibouro)–Homa Bay (Ndhiwa) Transmission Line, marking a significant milestone in strengthening electricity infrastructure in the South Nyanza region.

The newly commissioned transmission line is expected to reduce technical power losses, enhance high-voltage capacity to support industrial growth, and improve electricity supply stability and reliability across the region. It also provides an alternative evacuation route for power generated from the Sondu and Sang’oro power stations.

The 132kV Sondu–Homa Bay Transmission Line project is a government-funded infrastructure initiative aimed at reinforcing the transmission network in South Nyanza. The scope of works included the detailed design, supply of materials, installation, testing, and commissioning of approximately 69 kilometres of a 132kV Sondu–Ndhiwa single-circuit transmission line, along with loop-ins to the Sondu and Sang’oro power stations.

Currently, electricity supplied to Homa Bay and Ndhiwa is transmitted from Kisumu via Muhoroni and Chemosit through a route exceeding 200 kilometres. The newly energized line directly links Sondu to Ndhiwa over a shorter 69-kilometre distance, significantly improving efficiency and reducing transmission strain.

The existing Kisumu–Muhoroni transmission line, rated at 81 MW, has been handling regional demand of approximately 120 MW, resulting in overload conditions. To maintain system stability, up to 20 MW has been shed during evening peak periods. The Sondu–Homa Bay line is expected to relieve this overload and enhance grid reliability. The project will also improve power supply in Kericho County through the Sotik–Chemosit–Kisii transmission network.

KETRACO Acting Managing Director, Eng. Kipkemoi Kibias, said the energization represents a major step toward improving regional power stability. He emphasized public safety, urging residents who have erected structures within the transmission corridor to relocate to avoid the risk of electrocution.

“The energization of this line marks a major milestone in improving power stability in South Nyanza. From the outset, we engaged the community and advised those who had put up structures along the transmission corridor to relocate for their own safety. The safety of the public remains a priority. This project is designed to serve and benefit the wider region,” said Eng. Kibias.

The project is being implemented under a 24-month contract period running from May 30, 2024, to May 30, 2026, at a total cost of KSh 692,875,725.60, fully financed by the Government of Kenya.

The energization of the 132kV Sondu–Homa Bay Transmission Line underscores KETRACO’s commitment to strengthening Kenya’s national transmission grid and supporting the government’s agenda of delivering reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to drive socio-economic development across the country.