KPLC turns to non-oil based transformers

The Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) is set to initiate the process of replacing conventional transformers in vandalism-prone areas with new types that do not use oil in a bid to beat vandals.

The firm has already tendered for supply of about 100 dry type transformers to be installed in Kiambu, Nyeri, Thika, Dagoretti Corner, Ruiru, Gatundu, Limuru and Kitengela which experience high cases of theft.

The power firm’s operations and maintenance manager Noah Omondi said losses attributable to vandalism amount to an average of Sh600 million per year with the economy losing over Sh2 billion.

Hard to dismember

He said unlike the conventional ones, the dry type contains no oil and its copper windings are encapsulated in a tough epoxy resin material making it hard for vandals to dismember.

Dry type transformers are mainly installed in basement buildings such as big supermarkets and high rise buildings in other parts of the world.

This is meant to prevent fire hazards associated with traditional oil type transformers in use.

KPLC has also begun installing intruder alarm systems on its power equipment on a pilot basis, mounting transformers high up on the voltage lines to discourage vandals and relocating regularly vandalised transformers to safer grounds.

In the past, copper windings and electricity cables were main targets for vandals but the focus has since shifted to transformer oil after KPLC successfully lobbied the government for a ban in the export of scrap metal in 2008.