Kenya Power has raised concerns over the impact of the swift increase in wind and solar energy on the stability and reliability of the country's electricity grid.
The utility revealed that variable renewable energy sources now contribute over 20% of Kenya's total grid capacity, surpassing the global recommended limit of 15%. During peak daytime hours, these sources can account for up to 34% of the energy mix.
This high penetration exposes the grid to vulnerabilities due to the intermittent nature of wind and solar power, which can fluctuate rapidly. When production dips or surges unexpectedly, Kenya Power must activate other generation plants to stabilize the system, incurring additional costs.
Unlike some regions where renewable output can be curtailed to maintain grid frequency and avoid transmission bottlenecks, Kenya operates under a “take or pay” model. This means the utility is obligated to pay for and dispatch all generated wind and solar power, limiting flexibility.
As a result, Kenya Power often dispatches extra generation at higher costs to prevent grid collapse, a burden that ultimately increases electricity prices for consumers.
Recommendations
- Kenya Power advocates for increased investment in renewable energy sources with more consistent output, such as geothermal and hydroelectric power.
- These stable alternatives could enhance grid reliability while supporting the country’s clean energy goals.
