If you’re curious about where Kenya gets most of its electricity, you’ve probably heard the name KenGen. It’s the country’s biggest generator, supplying about 70% of the national grid. In this page you’ll get a quick rundown of what KenGen is doing right now – from new hydro dams to solar farms – and why it matters to your daily life.
KenGen’s portfolio is a mix of old hydro plants and fresh renewable ventures. The most talked‑about project this year is the Olkaria Geothermal Expansion. The new turbines add roughly 300 MW to the grid, cutting carbon emissions by thousands of tonnes. Geothermal is a win‑win because it runs 24/7 and doesn’t need rain or sunlight.
On the solar side, the Garissa Solar Plant recently hit full capacity. At 50 MW it powers thousands of homes in the north, a region that used to rely on diesel generators. The plant’s modular design means KenGen can add more panels quickly if demand spikes.
Hydro still plays a big role. The upcoming Turkwell Dam Upgrade will modernise turbines and improve water use efficiency. Even though Kenya’s rainy seasons are getting erratic, upgraded dams can store water better, keeping supply steady during dry months.
KenGen doesn’t just build power stations; it also invests in local communities. For every new plant, the company funds schools, health clinics and job‑training programs. In the Turkwell area, a vocational center was opened last year, giving youth skills in electrical work and maintenance.
Looking ahead, KenGen aims to reach 1 GW of renewable capacity by 2030. The plan includes two more solar farms in the Rift Valley and a wind project along the coast. If those goals are met, Kenya could cut its reliance on fossil fuels dramatically.
What does this mean for you? More reliable electricity, fewer blackouts and a lower electricity bill as renewable power becomes cheaper. It also means a cleaner environment for future generations.
Keep an eye on KenGen’s announcements – they often publish monthly performance reports that show how much power was generated and where. Those reports are a great way to track progress and see which projects are delivering the most benefit.
In short, KenGen is at the heart of Kenya’s energy transition. Whether you’re a homeowner, a business owner or just someone who wants cleaner air, the company’s projects affect you directly. Stay updated, and you’ll be part of the story as Kenya moves toward a greener, more reliable power future.
Kenya Electricity Generating Company, known as KenGen, has announced a significant profit increase of 35% to KSh7 billion, encouraging the company to double its dividend payout. This development is due in part to strong revenues bolstered by geothermal energy expansion. The move highlights KenGen's commitment to growth and sustainable energy solutions, with significant dividends set for both private and government shareholders.