The government of Kenya has commissioned a Sh13 billion solar plant in Garissa as part of its national agenda of reducing cost of power generation for both domestic and industrial use.

Dubbed the biggest Solar Power plant in East and Central Africa, on optimal use is set to inject an additional 54 megawatt of power into the national grid.

While commissioning the Garissa Solar Plant Energy CS Charles Keter said the government is investing more in solar power to bring the cost of power down from 35 cents to 54 cents per megawatt.

“The government is determined to lower the cost of power. That is why we are going for cheap and cost-effective power projects,” Keter said. Adding that even though the solar plant is not a 24-hour generating project, the government is exploring other forms of technology, where solar batteries will be used alongside the plant

The plant 300 solar panels and is expected to light up more than 200,000 households.  The project will reduce emissions by 43,000 tonnes. It is being implemented by the government and funded by Exim Bank of China.

Keter, who was accompanied by top officials from REA, said he was impressed by the contractor’s work. The solar power plant will be commissioned by President Uhuru Kenyatta on September 24.