KenGen To Add 253 MW Renewable Energy To Kenya’s Grid By 2027

Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) plans to add about 253 MW of renewable energy to Kenya’s national grid over the next three years. The move comes as the country’s electricity demand continues to rise, with a record peak of 2,444 MW reached in early 2026. Through its “G2G 2034 Strategy,” the company is focusing on green energy projects to support the government’s target of doubling renewable capacity by 2030.

Geothermal power remains the main focus of the expansion. The Olkaria I geothermal plant is being rehabilitated, and its capacity will increase from 45 MW to 61 MW by late 2026. In addition, the new 80.3 MW Olkaria VII project is under development. Mobile wellhead generation units will also be installed to quickly add more power to the grid by 2027. These geothermal projects are backed by financial support from the European Investment Bank and the Government of Japan.

KenGen is also investing in solar and hydropower projects. The Seven Forks Solar Project, developed in partnership with the French government, will add 42.5 MW of solar capacity. This project will help support hydropower generation during the daytime. In the hydro sector, the Gogo Hydro Power Plant in Migori, which is 65 years old, will be upgraded to increase its output four times. The height of the Masinga Dam will also be raised to improve water storage and strengthen power reliability.

To further improve grid stability, a 100 MW Battery Energy Storage System is expected to start operations in 2027. The system will store excess renewable energy and release it during peak demand. These steps will reduce Kenya’s reliance on costly thermal power and electricity imports from neighboring countries, helping to build a cleaner and more reliable energy system.