The Lapsset Corridor project in Kenya has the potential to be a major economic driver, but it’s crucial to ensure its development prioritizes energy efficiency and conservation.

Here are some key areas for action:

1. Infrastructure and Construction:

• Sustainable Building Practices: Implement building codes and standards that promote energy-efficient designs in new construction throughout the corridor. This could involve using energy-efficient materials, maximizing natural light and ventilation, and incorporating smart building technology to optimize energy use.
• Green Construction Materials: Encourage the use of recycled and locally sourced materials during construction to minimize environmental impact and transportation emissions. Utilise Green Cement manufacture for all cement and concrete use in buildings, railway and roads.
• Waste Management: Establish a robust waste management system to minimize construction waste and explore possibilities for waste recycling. PSECC Ltd will aim for “ZERO WASTE”.

2. Transportation and Logistics:

• Public Transportation Network: Develop a reliable and efficient public transportation system within the corridor to reduce reliance on private vehicles. This could include buses, trains, or even electric trams depending on feasibility.
• Electric Vehicle Infrastructure: Invest in a network of charging stations for electric vehicles (EVs) along the Lapsset Corridor to incentivize their use for both passenger and freight transport. Consider including hydrogen refuelling stations if green the proposed Green hydrogen production becomes increasingly viable.
• Logistics Efficiency: Promote efficient logistics practices within the corridor, such as optimizing delivery routes and consolidating cargo to minimize unnecessary travel and fuel consumption together with Circular Waste Management.

3. Energy Use and Management:

• Renewable Energy Integration: Prioritize the use of renewable energy sources like solar, wind, or geothermal to power the corridor’s operations. The existing plan for a 300MW solar farm is a positive step, but exploring additional capacity and other renewables would be ideal. PSECC Ltd aim for “NET ZERO” by 2048.
• Smart Grid Technology: Implement smart grid technology to optimize energy distribution within the corridor. This allows for real-time monitoring, demand-side management, and better integration of renewable energy sources.
• Energy Efficiency Measures: Promote energy-efficient technologies and practices across all sectors within the corridor. This includes using LED lighting, energy-efficient appliances, and implementing energy audits for buildings and facilities to identify and address inefficiencies in smart homes and smart cities.

4. Land Use and Management:

• Sustainable Forestry Practices: If the Lapsset Corridor traverses forested areas, implement sustainable forestry practices to minimize deforestation. Encourage reforestation programs to offset emissions and create carbon sinks.
• Land Use Planning: Develop a comprehensive land-use plan that incorporates green spaces and promotes sustainable agricultural practices within the corridor. This can help minimize environmental impact and create a more sustainable ecosystem.

5. Education and Awareness:

• Community Engagement: Educate and engage communities living within the corridor about the importance of energy efficiency and conservation. This can foster a sense of ownership and encourage sustainable practices at the local level.
• Awareness Programs: Develop awareness programs for businesses operating within the corridor to encourage them to adopt energy-efficient practices and technologies.

By implementing these strategies, the Lapsset Corridor project can achieve its economic goals while minimizing its environmental footprint and promoting long-term sustainability.