The Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) has initiated a significant project under Phase 2 of the Kenya Green and Resilient Expansion of Energy (GREEN) Program to enhance the resilience of the national power grid. Backed by World Bank funding, the initiative aims to improve grid stability while facilitating greater integration of regional hydropower and domestic renewable energy resources.
Installing cutting-edge grid stabilization technology, such as Static Synchronous Compensators (STATCOMs) and other reactive power compensation systems, is a crucial component of the project. These systems will be installed at the Rabai substation, which is close to Mombasa, and the Suswa converter station. The objective is to improve voltage stability and provide a consistent supply of power, particularly in areas where lengthy transmission distances present difficulties.
The growing power supply from the Ethiopia-Kenya interconnector is the reason for this upgrading. Even if the interconnector is crucial to regional energy exchange, using it for more than 200 MW without the right system support can lead to hazards including voltage instability and possible outages. By offering quick and dynamic voltage regulation, STATCOMs will assist preserve system balance and enhance network performance as a whole.
There are two primary parts to the project. At the Suswa station, mechanically switched shunt busbar reactors and a 120 MVA STATCOM are installed as part of the first component. The second part is setting up a 120 MVAr STATCOM and a shunt capacitor at the Rabai substation. It is anticipated that these enhancements will lessen reliance on costly fossil fuel-based power generation, which is currently utilized to maintain grid voltage standards.
KETRACO is concentrating on making sure that projects are carried out correctly in addition to developing infrastructure. The business has extended an invitation to seasoned consulting firms to show interest in offering project management and construction monitoring services. Design review, site supervision, and technical staff training for KETRACO will all be part of the consulting.
In order to support Kenya’s long-term objective of establishing a clean and stable energy system, this project is viewed as a critical step in enhancing grid reliability.