KWALE, Kenya – The residents of Mkwiro and Wasini islands in Kwale County have been brought into a new era of electricity accessibility with the inauguration of a Sh 350 million off-grid solar power project by the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC). This development is a significant milestone for the twin islands, which have historically relied on diesel generators and kerosene lamps for power.
According to Kenya News Agency, the solar power initiative aims to transform the lives of the island inhabitants, providing them with a cleaner, more sustainable energy source. The inauguration ceremony, marked by high spirits, signified a major shift from fossil fuels to solar energy for the islands, known for their abundant sunshine.
Mkwiro and Wasini islands, detached from the national electricity grid, have long faced challenges in accessing reliable power. The islands, characterized by their lush mangrove forests, green coral reefs, and pristine beaches, are popular tourist destinations. The new solar power project is expected to bolster the local economy, particularly in the tourism and fishing sectors, which are vital to the island communities.
The project, funded by the World Bank in collaboration with the Kwale county government, was recently launched by President William Ruto. The President acknowledged the partnership’s role in illuminating the remote islands, which are only accessible by boat.
Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir highlighted that the project is part of Kenya’s broader Electricity Modernisation Project (KEMP), aimed at expanding electricity access to underserved and off-grid communities. The government’s focus is on promoting sustainable energy solutions like wind and solar energy across the country.
The newly installed mini-grid boasts a solar plant capacity of 737 kilowatts per hour, distributed via an 11.02 Kilometer power line network and supported by three transformers. It features 1,820 solar panels and 247 lead-acid batteries, benefiting around 600 homes. Additionally, the grid is equipped with a 70kVA standby diesel-powered generator to ensure consistent power supply.
Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani stressed the importance of this development for the local fishing community, who have long sought a regular power source for cold storage facilities. The solar mini-grid project is expected to lower electricity costs for island residents and accelerate development in the region.
Athman Shauri, a local fisherman, expressed optimism that the solar power project would significantly enhance the social and economic life of the islanders. Previously reliant on diesel generators for limited daily power, the residents now enjoy consistent and affordable electricity.
Local women leader Fatma Bakari also noted the impact of the project, pointing out that most families previously relied on candles and lanterns at night. The solar-powered project is set to change this, lighting up homes, streets, and markets, and bringing new opportunities for business and development in the islands.
The project represents a crucial step towards reducing carbon emissions, promoting clean energy, and increasing electricity access in Kenya, aligning with global efforts to achieve universal energy access.