Kiambu County Implements Solar Technology for Street Lighting, Moving Away from Conventional Power Sources

Posted on : Monday, 6th January 2025

Kiambu County has taken a bold step by transitioning from national grid-powered streetlights to solar-powered alternatives. This shift aims to curb soaring electricity bills, which exceed one billion shillings annually. Governor Kimani Wamatangi launched the initiative, dubbed "Angaza Kiambu," in Thika on December 18. Over 500 solar streetlights have already been installed in Thika Township, Hospital, Kamenu, Ngoliba, and Gatuayaga wards. The governor also prohibited new installations of electricity-powered streetlights and directed the replacement of existing ones.

 

Governor Wamatangi highlighted challenges such as frequent power outages, disconnections due to unpaid bills, and low voltages, which have strained the county’s resources. Hospitals alone consume over KSh 1.2 billion in electricity annually, while streetlights account for KSh 260 million. To address these issues, the county has procured approximately 12,000 solar lights for installation across its 60 wards, targeting completion within the current financial year.

 

The move aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 7, promoting affordable and clean energy by 2030. The Directorate of Public Utilities and Urban Administration spearheads this project, ensuring no further installations of grid-powered lights. According to Acting Chief Officer Engineer Virginia Kahonge, maintenance costs for grid-connected lights are high, with Sh50 million already spent in the 2023/24 financial year.

 

By embracing renewable energy, Kiambu County is reducing operational costs while championing sustainability and energy independence. This initiative sets a precedent for other counties to follow suit in adopting clean energy solutions.