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Inside the ambitious Sh3 billion solar street lighting plan for Eldoret City
The solar street lighting project in Kenya’s fifth city aligns with the county’s vision to become a model for clean energy adoption and smart urban planning.
Eldoret City is set for a major transformation as Uasin Gishu County launches a Sh3 billion solar street lighting project aimed at making the city safer and more energy-efficient.
The initiative, part of a long-term infrastructure strategy, is expected to lower energy costs, enhance urban security, reduce the city’s carbon footprint and boost investor confidence.
The plan includes the installation of over 20,000 adaptive LED streetlights equipped with CCTV surveillance cameras and smart controls for remote monitoring, adaptive lighting, and predictive maintenance.
The solar street lighting project in Kenya’s fifth city aligns with the county’s vision to become a model for clean energy adoption and smart urban planning.
According to the county government of Uasin Gishu, the project will involve the construction of a 3MWp solar power generation plant with a 10MWh storage capacity. In addition, a 200-kilometre underground distribution network will be installed, integrated with fibre optic cabling to improve connectivity and digital infrastructure.
Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii said the project, to be implemented through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with Rayuton Seko Energy Ltd, a Kenya–Czech Republic collaboration, will significantly cut electricity costs and improve public safety across the city.
“We are keen on changing the way of life for our people, and through this partnership, the project will be a game-changer. It is part of the pledge I made to residents during the campaigns,” said Mr Bii.
Eldoret City is set for a major transformation as Uasin Gishu County launches a Sh3 billion solar street lighting project.
The governor said the Sh3 billion project, equivalent to $23 million, is not only a milestone in renewable energy but also a key driver of economic development.
“As a 3MWp solar power plant with a 10MWh energy storage system, it will power the street lights, reducing energy costs and our carbon footprint,” he said.
Anthony Sitienei, the County Executive Committee Member for Energy, highlighted the long-term sustainability of the initiative.
“We are not just installing lights; we are building a smarter, greener city. The reduced energy costs and modern infrastructure will have a lasting impact on service delivery,” he said.
The county estimates that the system will reduce public lighting costs by up to 50 percent, extend safe working hours to support a night-time economy, improve road safety, and lower crime rates, benefits that align with Kenya’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) on climate action.
County Chief Officer for Energy, Mr Mark Some, pointed to earlier successes with pilot solar installations at the county headquarters, where switching to solar energy cut monthly electricity bills from Sh800,000 to Sh200,000.
“We have already seen the results at the county headquarters. This project will multiply those savings countywide,” he noted.
Director for Energy, Mr Silas Letting, underscored the project’s blend of renewable energy; Information, Communication and Technology (ICT); and urban planning.
“This initiative blends renewable energy, ICT, and urban planning in a way that sets a benchmark for other counties. From improved street safety to better internet connectivity, the benefits will be felt across every ward,” he said.
The county is currently conducting public participation forums across all wards to involve citizens in the planning of the 15-year project, which comprises a three-year construction phase followed by 13 years of operation, maintenance, and eventual transfer to the county government.
Following these forums, the proposal will be presented to the County Assembly for approval ahead of full-scale implementation.
Local traders have welcomed the initiative, noting that improved street lighting will allow businesses to operate for longer hours, thereby boosting the local economy.
“With reliable lighting, businesses can operate beyond daylight hours, boosting the local economy and promoting growth,” said Mr Willy Kenei, the chairperson of the Kenya Chamber of Commerce, North Rift.
Solar panels.
Mr Kenei said the reduced energy costs and enhanced infrastructure would make Eldoret more attractive to investors and position it as a regional commercial hub.
Residents have also expressed optimism about the project’s impact on security and livelihoods. Mr John Njoroge, a resident of Kipkenyo in Kapseret Sub-County, said the project is long overdue.
“This is a timely project. We have been waiting for something like this. It’s time we used the abundant sunshine to power our homes and protect ourselves from the high cost of hydroelectricity,” he said.
He added that the installation of streetlights in informal settlements such as Langas, Kipkaren, Huruma, Shauri, Kamukunji, Munayaka, and Sugunanga would greatly enhance security in those areas.
Ms Mary Sang, speaking during a public forum at Eldoret County Hall, said the project could reshape the city’s future.
“We are in support of this project because we want to benefit from it,” she said, adding that it offers a beacon of hope for a brighter and more sustainable future.
Young people are also hopeful that the initiative will create employment opportunities during both the construction and maintenance phases.
“The project is expected to create employment, especially for us youths,” said Mr Kennedy Yego, a resident of Moiben Sub-County.
