Kenya and Tanzania recently begun work on a joint power project. The project which was funded by a $258.82 million loan from the African Development Bank and the Japanese International Cooperation Agency is being implemented by Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO).
The joint power project will enable the two neighboring countries to share electricity easily through a reduction in operational cost of energy production. Kenya will extend transmission line to Ethiopia while Tanzania will extend its line to Zambia.
Emmanuel Manirabona, Tanesco’s Senior Manager in charge of projects said that the project involves the construction of a double-circuit overhead transmission line from Singida to Isinya in Kenya, through Babati, Arusha and Namanga. It will also involve the construction of a 400kV transmission line between Babati and Arusha. He added that the work will be undertaken by Bouygues Energies & Services of France to help both countries replace high-cost thermal energy with cheaper hydropower.
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The project has been divided into lots. The contractors from Tanzania are to set up a 510km 400kv substations and transmission lines. Five modern sub-stations will be built to ensure smooth power transmission between the two countries.
According to Mr Manirabona, the Kenya-Tanzania Power project is part of a grand plan to build 400kv transmission line interconnections with as many countries as possible when the Stiegler’s Gorge Hydroelectric Power Station becomes operational.
The project is slated for completion in 2020.