Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) has energized the 132kV Sondu (Thurdibouro)–Homa Bay (Ndhiwa) transmission line, a move expected to significantly improve power stability, reduce technical losses, and support industrial growth in the South Nyanza region.
The new line provides an alternative high-voltage evacuation route for electricity generated from the Sondu and Sang’oro power stations, strengthening supply reliability in a region that has long suffered from transmission bottlenecks and load shedding.
Shorter route, lower losses
The Sondu–Homa Bay line spans approximately 69 kilometres, directly linking Sondu to Ndhiwa. Previously, electricity supplied to Homa Bay and Ndhiwa counties was transmitted from Kisumu via Muhoroni and Chemosit, a route exceeding 200 kilometres.
By significantly shortening the transmission distance, the new line is expected to reduce technical power losses and improve voltage stability across South Nyanza.
The project involved the construction of a 132kV single-circuit transmission line, including loop-ins to both Sondu and Sang’oro power stations, alongside detailed design, supply of materials, installation, testing, and commissioning works.
Addressing overloaded infrastructure
Power supply to South Nyanza has been constrained by the Kisumu–Muhoroni transmission line, which is currently overloaded. While the line is rated at 81 megawatts, regional demand stands at approximately 120 megawatts.
To maintain system stability, about 20 megawatts of power has been shed every evening, leading to frequent outages for households and businesses. The newly energized Sondu–Homa Bay transmission line is expected to relieve this congestion and ensure more reliable electricity supply.
In addition to stabilizing South Nyanza, the project is also set to improve power reliability in Kericho County through the Sotik–Chemosit–Kisii transmission corridor.
Government-funded investment
The transmission project is fully financed by the Government of Kenya at a total contract cost of KSh 692.9 million. Implementation is being carried out over a 24-month contract period, running from 30 May 2024 to 30 May 2026.
KETRACO Acting Managing Director Eng. Kipkemoi Kibias said the energization marks a major milestone in strengthening the region’s electricity infrastructure, while also emphasizing public safety along the transmission corridor.
“The energization of this line marks a major milestone in improving power stability in South Nyanza. From the outset, we engaged the community and advised those who had put up structures along the transmission corridor to relocate for their own safety. The safety of the public remains a priority,” said Eng. Kibias.
Supporting regional growth
The Sondu–Homa Bay transmission line is part of KETRACO’s broader mandate to expand and modernize Kenya’s national grid, evacuate power from generation sources, and reduce the overall cost of electricity by minimizing transmission losses.
By enhancing high-voltage capacity and reliability, the project is expected to support industrial activity, commercial development, and household electrification across South Nyanza, while reinforcing the government’s agenda of delivering affordable and sustainable electricity nationwide.
