Ketraco completes Kes254million grid restoration project on Loiyangalani–Suswa 400kv transmission line

By Isaac OGANGA

Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO) has completed the Grid Restoration Project on the Loiyangalani–Suswa 400kV Double Circuit Transmission Line.

The project marks a significant milestone in enhancing the reliability and resilience of Kenya’s national power grid.

The restoration works involved the design, supply, and erection of six new transmission towers to replace collapsed structures near Longonot, as well as associated conductor stringing and Optical Ground Wire (OPGW) installations.

The project was undertaken by M/s Elemech Engineering Limited under a contract signed on 9th November 2024.

The restoration has been carried out in phases, with Circuit 1 successfully energized on 20th September 2025. The energization of Circuit 2 is scheduled for 28th September 2025, at which point the transmission line will be fully restored to its original operational capacity.

This milestone ensures enhanced evacuation of power from the Lake Turkana Wind Power (LTWP) plant, elimination of frequent interruptions associated with the temporary bypass, and restoration of N-1 contingency, thereby improving the overall stability and reliability of the national grid.

Speaking during the commissioning of the line, Cabinet Secretary for Energy, Opiyo Wandayi, stated that the enhanced evacuation capacity, now able to transmit up to 300 MW from the Lake Turkana Wind Power (LTWP) plant will provide more stable, affordable, and clean energy for the country.

He added that this improved reliability in power supply will boost investor confidence and assure consumers of consistent access to electricity, which is critical for economic growth and industrial development.

“The successful completion of this project directly supports the Government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda by ensuring reliable electricity supply to power industries, SMEs, and households across the country.

It also strengthens our commitment to expanding access to clean, renewable energy in line with Vision 2030 and Kenya’s international climate obligations.”  Said CS Opiyo Wandayi.

KETRACO Ag. MD Eng. Kipkemoi Kibias noted that the energization of both circuits ensures N-1 contingency, a critical feature that enhances grid reliability by reducing the risk of outages and improving overall system security.

He further highlighted that the completion of permanent structures will significantly reduce maintenance costs that were previously incurred on temporary bypass solutions.

“With both circuits now fully operational, we’ve restored the grid’s resilience and efficiency. The N-1 contingency means the system can withstand unexpected faults without major disruptions.

This not only improves power reliability for consumers but also reduces the financial and operational burden of maintaining temporary infrastructure.” Said Eng. Kibias.