KIAMBU, Kenya – In a strategic move to reduce electricity expenses and promote sustainable energy, the Kiambu County Government has inaugurated its first solar street lighting initiative in Fort Jesus, Ruiru Sub-County.

According to Kenya News Agency, this project signifies a pivotal shift towards solar energy, with Governor Kimani Wamatangi spearheading the initiative alongside CECM of Lands, Housing, Physical Planning and Municipalities, Salome Muthoni, and local area MCA’s. The project commenced with 35 solar street lights and aims to expand to a total of 115 units, marking a significant step in Kiambu’s urban transformation plan.

The transition to solar power emerges against the backdrop of escalating electricity costs, which have surged to Ksh 142 million monthly for street lighting alone. With projections suggesting this figure could rise to Ksh 200 million, Wamatangi emphasized the economic imperative for solar energy, particularly in new infrastructure projects like the upcoming level 3 hospital in Kahawa Sukari ward.

This initiative aligns with broader fiscal strategies to mitigate the county’s energy expenditures, which had previously reached Sh1.7 billion annually for street lighting. By pivoting to solar, Kiambu County not only anticipates substantial cost savings but also sets a precedent for integrating renewable energy solutions across its various sub-counties.

The project is collaboratively supported by the Kiambu County Government, the Executive, and the Kenya Informal Settlement Improvement Project (KISIP), reflecting a collective commitment to energy efficiency and sustainable urban development. The successful launch in Fort Jesus paves the way for subsequent installations in other strategic locations, including Bosnia (Riverside) in Kiuu Ward and Gitambaya (Fort Jesus/Matopeni Settlement) in Biashara Ward, Ruiru Sub-County.