KONZA, Kenya — The Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) has successfully energised the 400kV Isinya–Konza Transmission Line and the 400/132/66kV Konza Substation, marking a major milestone in strengthening Kenya’s electricity transmission network and securing a reliable power supply for Konza Technopolis.
In a statement issued on June 13, KETRACO said the project is expected to improve grid reliability, enhance electricity quality, and support the rapid growth of Kenya’s flagship smart city as well as surrounding industrial, commercial, and residential developments.
The infrastructure includes a 48-kilometre 400kV double-circuit transmission line, two 350MVA 400/132kV transformers, and two 75MVA 132/66kV transformers.
According to KETRACO, the project will increase power transfer capacity, improve network stability, and provide greater operational flexibility within the national grid.
Acting Managing Director, Eng. Kipkemoi Kibias described the energisation as a significant achievement in the country’s efforts to build a resilient transmission network capable of meeting rising electricity demand.
“The successful energization of the Isinya–Konza Transmission Line and Konza Substation strengthens the reliability of the national grid and guarantees quality power supply to Konza Technopolis and surrounding areas,” said Kibias.
He noted that the project would play a key role in supporting industrialisation, attracting investment, and advancing the country’s Vision 2030 development agenda.
“This project is critical in supporting industrialization, attracting investments, and advancing Kenya’s Vision 2030 development agenda,” he added.
Kibias further said the development would facilitate the evacuation and distribution of electricity to the lower eastern region while improving resilience through enhanced interconnectivity and alternative power supply routes.
The project was financed jointly by the Export-Import Bank of China and the Government of Kenya at a cost of Sh8.4 billion. Construction was undertaken by the China Aerospace Construction Group Company Limited (CACC).
KETRACO said the new infrastructure will significantly improve electricity transmission capacity across Kajiado, Machakos, and Makueni counties, helping meet growing residential, commercial, and industrial demand while reducing network constraints.
The company added that Konza Technopolis will benefit from access to reliable green energy sourced from major renewable power projects, including the Kipeto Wind Power Project, Olkaria geothermal plants, and the Lake Turkana Wind Power Project. The system will also facilitate the transmission of hydroelectric power imported from Ethiopia.
Power from these sources will be routed through the Suswa 400kV Substation and the existing Isinya 400kV Substation, creating a more robust and sustainable electricity supply network for the smart city and the wider region.
KETRACO said it remains committed to developing and maintaining a strong transmission system capable of supporting long-term economic transformation and energy security.
