Kiambu County, one of Kenya’s rapidly growing counties, is embarking on a transformative journey toward renewable energy with its recent shift to solar-powered streetlights. In a strategic move aimed at reducing soaring electricity costs, the county government has moved away from grid-connected streetlights, opting instead for solar alternatives. This transition is not only cost-effective but also aligns with the global push towards Sustainable Development Goal 7, which aims for affordable and clean energy by 2030.
The official launch of the “Angaza Kiambu” program took place in Thika on Wednesday, where Governor Kimani Wamatangi unveiled over 500 solar-powered lights already installed in key areas such as Thika Township, Hospital, Kamenu, Ngoliba, and Gatuanyaga wards. This initiative marks a significant step towards achieving sustainable development within the county, reflecting a broader commitment to clean energy and environmental stewardship.
Governor Wamatangi noted that the county’s transition to solar power was prompted by frequent issues associated with grid-connected streetlights, including frequent power outages, disconnections due to unpaid bills, and issues with low voltage. These challenges have not only hampered the county’s ability to provide uninterrupted services but have also led to excessive costs. The governor revealed that Kiambu County spends over Ksh 1.2 billion annually on electricity alone, with hospitals being the largest consumer at Sh1.2 billion, while streetlights account for Ksh 260 million. This expenditure is unsustainable, prompting the shift to solar energy as a solution.
The “Angaza Kiambu” program aims to replace all grid-connected streetlights with solar alternatives across the county. The initiative involves the installation of nearly 12,000 solar-powered lights across all 60 wards in Kiambu County. These installations are expected to be completed within the current financial year, a testament to the county’s commitment to renewable energy. The Directorate of Public Utilities, in collaboration with Urban and Municipal Administration, has procured these solar lights to ensure that each ward benefits from this green energy transition.
Governor Wamatangi emphasized that the shift to solar streetlights would not only cut down on operational costs but also improve efficiency. The transition is projected to save the county approximately Ksh 260 million annually, a significant reduction from the Ksh 1 billion previously spent on electricity for streetlights. This initiative is also expected to alleviate the burden of maintenance costs, which have been substantial under the previous system. In the 2023/2024 financial year alone, the county has already spent Ksh 50 million on repairs and maintenance of grid-connected streetlights.
Critics of the move, including national government agencies such as the Rural Electrification Authority, Kenya Power, and the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA), have previously pushed for the installation of grid-powered streetlights, particularly upon the requests of Members of Parliament. This has placed the maintenance and electricity costs squarely on the shoulders of county governments. Governor Wamatangi’s directive halting the installation of new grid-powered streetlights and mandating the replacement of existing ones with solar alternatives is aimed at relieving these financial pressures.
Acting Chief Officer for Public Works and Utilities, Engineer Virginia Kahonge, emphasized the high maintenance costs associated with grid-connected streetlights. She noted that maintaining these lights is not only expensive but also increasingly difficult due to issues such as frequent power cuts and voltage instability. The transition to solar, according to Kahonge, is a practical solution that ensures a more reliable and sustainable energy source, which is crucial for the county’s growth and service delivery.
Kiambu County’s shift to solar streetlights is a significant step forward in the adoption of green energy solutions in Kenya. It not only demonstrates the county’s commitment to sustainable development but also sets a precedent for other counties facing similar challenges. As the installations progress throughout the county, Kiambu is paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future, one streetlight at a time.
