The interconnector will enable power exchange between Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, the Southern Africa Power Pool, and countries in the north, such as Sudan and Egypt. It also supports economic merit order dispatch, ensuring access to cheaper electricity
Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) has completed and energized the 400kV transmission line linking Kenya and Tanzania, marking a significant milestone in enhancing regional electricity trade. This new infrastructure strengthens energy ties between the two nations, paving the way for increased power exchange and supporting broader regional energy and economic integration.
The energization and synchronization of the two electricity grids were coordinated by KETRACO, Tanzania Electricity Supply Company Limited (TANESCO), and Kenya Power.
Key Features of the Kenya-Tanzania Interconnector Project:
Scope of Work:
- Kenya constructed 96km of the 400kV transmission line from the Isinya substation to the Namanga border and extended the 400/220kV Isinya substation.
- Tanzania built 414km of 400kV transmission line from the Namanga border to Singida, constructed the 400kV Arusha substation, and extended the 220/33kV Singida substation.
This interconnector is part of the Eastern Electricity Highway, designed to facilitate regional trade and connectivity. The development aligns with the goals of the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP), which comprises 13 member states planning to begin official cross-border energy trade in March 2025.
Transforming Energy in the Region
KETRACO Managing Director, Dr John Mativo, emphasized the project’s long-term impact: “This regional interconnector will enhance the reliability of the interconnected power system, ensuring more sustainable and dependable electricity access. It will also create opportunities for large-scale, efficient renewable energy projects across the region while reducing greenhouse gas emissions by exporting affordable renewable power to countries reliant on fossil fuels.”
The interconnector will enable power exchange between Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, the Southern Africa Power Pool, and countries in the north, such as Sudan and Egypt. It also supports economic merit order dispatch, ensuring access to cheaper electricity.
Ethiopia-Kenya-Tanzania (EKT) Power Trade
A significant component of the interconnector is the EKT power transaction, the first wheeling arrangement within the EAPP. Under a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), TANESCO will buy 100MW from Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP), increasing to 200MW within three years.
KETRACO and TANESCO’s wheeling arrangement allows Kenya to earn revenue for transmission services, positioning the EKT transaction as a case study for future EAPP power market pricing.
Financing and Execution
The Kenyan component was financed by the Government of Kenya and the African Development Bank (AfDB) at a cost of Ksh 4.9 billion. The overall project cost approximately Ksh 89.85 billion (USD 309.26 million). The contractor, North China Power Engineering Company Limited, completed the project to international standards, ensuring readiness for regional power trade. This development underscores Kenya’s leadership in advancing renewable energy, regional cooperation, and economic integration.
