Uasin Gishu County has taken a bold step to transform Eldoret City into a smart, safe, and energy-efficient metropolis with the launch of the Eldoret City Solar-Powered Street Lighting Project, implemented under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP).
The county government today conducted public participation forums across various wards to involve residents in the planning of the 15-year project, which will include two years of construction followed by 13 years of operation, maintenance, and eventual transfer to the county.
The ambitious initiative costing USD 23 million (Sh2,978,500,000) will see the construction of a 3 MWp solar power generation plant with a 10 MWh storage capacity, alongside the installation of a 200-kilometre underground distribution network equipped with fiber optic cabling for high-speed connectivity.
The project will also feature over 20,000 adaptive LED streetlights integrated with CCTV surveillance cameras for enhanced urban security, as well as smart controls for remote monitoring, adaptive lighting, and predictive maintenance.
Governor Jonathan Bii said the initiative aligns with Nguzo Number 7 of his administration’s development pillars, which focuses on modern infrastructure and a safer living environment.
“We are keen on changing the way of life for our people and through PPP, this will be a game changer as I promised in my pre-election time,” he affirmed. “With projects like this, we are lighting up our streets, our homes, and our future. This is about making our county safer, more attractive for investment, and more liveable for our people and we will deliver.”
Residents have expressed strong support for the project, citing its potential to boost safety, business activity, and quality of life. “We are in support of this project because we want to benefit from it,” said Mary Sang, a resident of Kipkenyo. John Njoroge added, “This project will be key to providing security and securing our estates and villages.”
Energy County Executive Committee Member Anthony Sitienei emphasized the efficiency and sustainability benefits. “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 noted.
Chief Officer for Energy, Mark Some, underscored the county’s growing experience with solar technology. “We have already seen the results at the county headquarters, where switching to solar cut our electricity bill from Sh 800,000 to Sh 200,000 per month. This project will multiply those savings countywide,” he explained.
According to the project plan, the solar-powered lighting system will lower public lighting costs by up to 50%, extend safe working hours for a thriving night economy, reduce crime rates, improve road safety, and minimise the carbon footprint in line with Kenya’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
Director for Energy Silas Letting highlighted the transformative scope of the project. “This initiative blends renewable energy, ICT, and urban planning in a way that sets a benchmark for other counties,” he said. “From improved street safety to better internet connectivity, the benefits will be felt across every ward.”
Upon the conclusion of public participation, the proposal will be tabled before the County Assembly for approval ahead of full-scale rollout.
Once approved, the project will be implemented in partnership with Rayuton Seko Energy Ltd., a Kenya–Czech Republic collaboration bringing both technical expertise and investment capacity.
By Ekuwam Sylvester and Fredrick Maritim
