The Bomet County government has installed and adopted the use of solar energy in pumping clean water to storage reservoirs in order to serve her clients seamlessly.
The water schemes managed by the Bomet Water and Sanitation Company (BOMWASCO), is spread across the county and aims at reducing reliance on hydroelectric power and cutting down high electricity bills.
The solar-powered water pumping initiative is funded by the World Bank, through Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) to help mitigate climate change effects through the use of clean energy.
Bomet County Chief Officer for Water, Environment and Climate Change, Solomon Kimetto, noted that the initiative was poised to revolutionize water supply systems in the county, and as well bring about important economic and environmental benefits.
He said that by harnessing solar energy to pump water from low lift to high lift areas, it will significantly reduce reliance on traditional pumping systems of electricity and fuel-powered generators, thus cutting on the operational costs in efforts to connect more local residents with clean water.
The first phase installed with solar power will cover, Bomet, Sotik and Longisa (Kiptobit) Water Supply before expanding to other areas in order to sustain uninterrupted water supply in the schemes.
“Traditionally, water pumping relied on diesel-powered pumps, which were costly to operate and maintain, with rising fuel prices exacerbating the financial burden. The new solar system eliminates fuel expenses and reduces operational costs by up to percent, providing long-term economic benefits,” Kimetto observed.
He praised the solar pumps because they require minimal maintenance and have a longer lifespan compared to diesel pumps, making them ideal for rural settings.
In addition, Kimetto said, the use of renewable energy reduces the environmental impact, aligning with global goals for climate resilience.
Other schemes to benefit from solarization programme include Mogombet, Kapcheluch, Sigor (Kaproron), Gelegele and Ndanai water projects.
The county is also set to equip and install solar power in six existing boreholes across the county as well as drill and equip seven new boreholes in the current financial year.
By Erick Ongeri
