The Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) expects consumers to enjoy stable hydropower supply from Masinga Dam after water levels rose above capacity.
KenGen says the country’s largest hydroelectric reservoir maintained stable water levels this week which rose above capacity.
According to the firm, Masinga Dam currently holds 1,056.97 meters above sea level surpassing the maximum level of 1,056.50.
“This kind of stability at Masinga and the other hydro power stations is welcome, but it is no longer something we can take for granted,” said Peter Njenga, KenGen Chief Executive Officer.
Njenga says the improved water level is a big boost to Kenya’s electricity grid, as Masinga dam anchors the Seven Forks cascade which is a system of five interlinked hydro stations that collectively powers a significant share of the nation’s economy.
Additionally, KenGen says Kamburu, Gitaru, Kindaruma, Kiambere, Turkwel, Sondu, and Sang’oro power stations continue to hold strong operating at maximum water levels.
Hydroelectricity is Kenya’s cheapest and most established source of power, but it is also the most vulnerable to shifting rainfall patterns.
“We are operating in a new reality, and that’s why we are investing heavily in geothermal to shield Kenyans from the vagaries of rain-fed power production,” added Njenga.
KenGen says it has also rolled out new real-time monitoring systems across its dams to ensure efficient water use and early warning for potential risks.
