KETRACO Takes Major Step in Stabilising Power Supply

Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) has signed a contract with Consortium of Grid Solution SAS to build a new National System Control Centre (NSCC) in Embakasi. The National System Control Center aims to enhance the stability, reliability and efficiency of the national grid, marking a significant step in modernising Kenya’s Electricity Transmission Infrastructure.

This project follows KETRACO’s expanded mandate as a system operator under Section 138 of the Energy Act, as designated by EPRA in 2021.

Construction of the new NSCC, which will serve as the central command center for managing the national grid and ease the burden on the existing NSCC, is set to be completed in 36 months. The new facility will oversee the integration of electricity from diverse generators into the grid, ensuring optimal stability and reliability.

The new NSCC will be a game changer for our national grid. It will not only address the limitations of the current control center but also provide enhanced visibility, a better working environment, and advanced capabilities, allowing the operator to simulate future grid scenarios.

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The project will also involve the construction of a backup facility at KETRACO’s Suswa substation, which will be vital in managing asset performance and monitoring the grid. This facility will be the first of its kind in the region.

“We are building a state-of-the-art National System Control Centre in Embakasi that is essential for the efficient operation of the grid. The National Grid will continue to grow in size and capacity within Kenya, three regional high voltage inter-connectors connected to neighbouring countries, and more and more variable renewable energy added in the energy mix making it paramount for KETRACO construct a new facility. It will enable KETRACO to monitor and control energy dispatch to consumers across the country,” said KETRACO Managing Director, Dr. Eng. John Mativo, MBS.

The project, valued at Euros 80.7 million, is financed jointly by the Agence Française de Dévelopement (AFD) and French Ministry of Finance.

The NSCC will play a critical role in balancing electricity supply and demand, integrating various power sources, including variable renewable energy, and ensuring grid stability.

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