In a significant move toward sustainable urban development, Eldoret City is poised to transform its street lighting system with an innovative solar-powered project led by the Department of Energy in collaboration with the Uasin Gishu County Government.
The initiative will involve the installation of a state-of-the-art 3-megawatt (MW) solar power plant paired with a 10-megawatt-hour (MWh) energy storage system, designed to illuminate 20,000 street lights throughout Eldoret City.
Developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, the project aims to eliminate ongoing electricity costs, improve public safety, and further the city’s ambition of fostering a vibrant 24-hour economy.
During a recent visit to the PPP Directorate in Nairobi, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Water, Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy Anthony Sitienei shared his enthusiasm for the project’s transformative potential.
“This initiative is much more than just an enhancement of our lighting system; it’s a substantial investment in the future of our city. By harnessing clean energy, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also enhancing security and reinforcing Eldoret’s position as a leader in sustainable urban solutions,” stated Sitienei.
The Uasin Gishu delegation, which includes CECM Sitienei, Chief Officer for Environment, Climate Change, and Natural Resources, Mark Some, and Dr. Leting (Director of Energy), has secured authorisation to initiate public participation processes—an essential step for the project’s successful implementation.
“Engaging with the public is essential. This is a project authored by the community, for the community. We aim to ensure that Eldoret residents understand the advantages and can actively contribute to its success,” Some said.
Benefits of Eldoret solar street lighting project
Among the projected benefits of this initiative are enhanced public safety due to better-lit streets, significant long-term savings from reduced electricity expenses, improved reliability of lighting infrastructure, and a boost to the local economy through job creation and increased nighttime business activity.
Dr. Leting emphasised the importance of the integrated energy storage component, asserting, “This feature guarantees consistent lighting even during cloudy days or nighttime, which is crucial for maintaining uninterrupted services.”
The solar street lighting project aligns seamlessly with the county’s broader development agenda, reflecting the national Nguzo 7 pillars that promote sustainability, innovation, and economic resilience.
Furthermore, it establishes Eldoret as a national frontrunner in smart city initiatives and the adoption of renewable energy.
If everything goes as planned, the project is expected to roll out in phases beginning early next year, with full deployment projected by 2027.
