Construction of the Sh40 billion Meru Energy Park, a hybrid power project, is set to kick off this year following the issuance of 10,800 title deeds to landowners in Tigania West, Meru County.
The project was expected to commence in 2021 but has been delayed due to lack of land ownership documents.
President William Ruto on Wednesday presided over the issuance of 10,807 title deeds under the New Kiare adjudication section, paving the way for the developer to start leasing land from 2,500 land owners.
The Meru Energy Park is Africa’s first hybrid renewable energy project combining wind, solar, and battery storage to produce 220MW of electricity.
A battery energy storage. The question of power storage has become critical as Kenya embraces e-mobility which requires reliable power supplies.
Photo credit: Shutterstock
It will consist of about 20 wind turbines, more than 40,000 solar panels
The power plant is being implemented by Hewani Energy, a subsidiary of Japan’s Eurus Energy and South Africa’s Seriti Green as well as the Meru Investment and Development Corporation.
Speaking during the issuance of title deeds at Kibiru area, President Ruto said the government would approve the investor’s power purchasing agreement to inject more affordable power into the national grid.
“The title deeds we have issued today will not only secure land ownership for residents but also unlock a multibillion investment,” he said.
The president said Japan’s Toyota Tsusho Corporation had committed to invest 250 million USD (Sh40 million) into the project.
“I am glad that the construction of the Meru Energy park can now start after the issuance of the title deeds,” Dr Ruto said.
President Ruto said the multibillion project will unlock hundreds of jobs directly and indirectly in Meru county.
“One of the impediments to the renewable energy project was lack of title deeds. The investor will now sign lease agreements with 2,500 land owners to generate clean energy. I assure the investor that the government will approve the power purchasing agreement to pave way for the development,” he said.
The president said the government will also protect the interests of the land owners during the signing of agreements.
According to Hewani Energy chief executive officer Peter Venn, the issuance of title deeds was a major milestone for the investment.
He said the company had facilitated the adjudication process in partnership with the county government and ministry of lands.
“This is a historic moment for landowners in Athwana Meru County, marking the culmination of a process that began in 2019. By supporting the issuance and handover of title deeds, we encourage investment and development in our communities. Our participation here exemplifies our commitment to community development and collaboration with the Government.” Mr Venn said.
He said once complete, the energy park will provide affordable power to about 200,000 homes in the country.
The project is also expected to create approximately 500 casual and semi-skilled jobs during the construction phase, and 50 permanent jobs during the operational stage.
