KETRACO

Expanding the Grid Every year, Every corner

COP28 aspirations, agreements and targets for Climate Change Mitigation will require tripling the Renewable Energy generation in Kenya. Strengthening and extending the national power transmission grid to enhance the quality, reliability and security of electricity supply in Kenya will be required and within the Lapsset Corridor.

For the Lapsset Corridor project we will need additional Substations and transmission lines and we will work with KeTraco to provide these – Lapsset Corridor it is hoped will then provide electricity to it’s customer’s on Private Mini Grids.

Cogeneration, also known as combined heat and power (CHP), is a process in which electricity is generated alongside the production of heat or steam. It involves the simultaneous production of electricity and useful thermal energy from the same fuel source, such as natural gas, biomass, or waste heat from industrial processes.

In traditional electricity generation, the thermal energy produced during the power generation process is often wasted. Cogeneration, on the other hand, captures this waste heat and utilizes it to supply hot water, steam, or industrial processes, thereby increasing the overall efficiency of the energy production system.

Cogeneration systems can be applied in various sectors, including industrial facilities, commercial buildings, and district heating systems. They offer several benefits, such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved energy efficiency, and enhanced energy security. Additionally, through the use of cogeneration, the total fuel consumption and environmental impact associated with separate heat and power generation can be minimized.

KeTraco plan, design, construct, own, operate and maintain the nation’s high voltage electricity transmission grid and regional power interconnectors.

Our transmission infrastructure is reinforcing and upgrading the power system towards increasing electricity access throughout the country as well as promoting power exchange and trade in the East Africa region.

Design of Power Transmission Infrastructure

Several factors are considered which determine the design and positioning of our substations, pylons and conductors. These include the voltage required and associated infrastructure to support this, as well as the terrain and environmental factors.

During route selection they first look at major corridors, such as existing utility lines, roads, and railroads before considering other areas. Then they work with affected communities to balance the consideration of several factors, including engineering, environment, current and future land use, community input, and electrical needs of the system. The routes that are considered in any transmission line project are shared with the public for their comments and input.

Transmission for Lapsset Corridor

The transmission of electricity from renewable energy projects in the Lapsset Corridor project in Kenya would involve several key components and processes.

These include:

1. Power generation: Renewable energy projects, such as wind, solar, and geothermal plants, would generate electricity. These projects would be strategically located along the corridor to harness the available renewable energy resources in the region.

2. Power substations: Substations would be set up to connect the renewable energy projects to the transmission grid. These substations play a crucial role in transforming the generated electricity to a higher voltage for efficient transmission.

3. Transmission lines: High-voltage transmission lines would be constructed to transport the electricity from the substations to the various regions and end-users. The transmission lines may span a significant distance and require careful planning to minimize energy losses during transmission.

4. Power transformers: Transformers would be installed at various points along the transmission lines to step down the voltage of the electricity for distribution to consumers or to connect with local distribution networks.

5. Grid integration: The renewable energy projects would need to be integrated into the existing or planned national grid system. This integration involves ensuring compatibility, stability, and reliability of the renewable energy sources with the overall grid infrastructure.

6. Control systems: Advanced control systems and grid monitoring technologies would be used to manage the transmission of electricity from renewable energy projects. These systems ensure efficient power flow, monitor grid stability, and allow for effective control of the electricity supply.

7. Grid interconnections: Interconnections with neighbouring countries or regions may also be established to allow for cross-border transmission of electricity. This integration can promote regional power trade and enhance energy security.

8. Planning and coordination: Effective planning, coordination, and collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, power utilities, project developers, and regulatory bodies, would be vital to ensure smooth transmission of renewable energy electricity. This includes conducting feasibility studies, securing permits, and addressing technical and regulatory challenges.

Overall, the transmission of new electricity from renewable energy projects in the Lapsset Corridor project would require infrastructure development, grid integration, control systems, and coordination to ensure efficient and reliable delivery of clean energy to consumers.