Kenya has announced its ambitious plans to construct a nuclear power plant as part of its efforts to enhance its energy infrastructure. The construction is scheduled to commence in 2027.
- Justus Wabuyabo, the acting CEO of Kenya’s Nuclear Power and Energy Agency, confirmed the plans and stated that the bidding stage would take place between 2026 and 2027, with construction to follow in 2027.
- The proposed location for the nuclear power plant is along the Kenyan coast, with Kilifi and Kwale counties being considered as potential sites.
- The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) granted Kenya approval in 2021 to proceed with establishing the necessary infrastructure for the power plant, paving the way for this significant development.
- Kenya’s decision to embrace nuclear power aligns with the continent-wide development framework, Africa Agenda 2063, which emphasizes energy access, infrastructure development, and environmental sustainability.
- The projected capacity of the nuclear power plant is 1,000 megawatts, and the estimated cost of the entire project ranges from approximately $3.39 billion to $4.07 billion.
- Kenya already possesses significant geothermal power capacity, generating over 800 megawatts from its abundant geothermal resources in the Great Rift Valley, making the addition of nuclear power a strategic move to diversify its energy mix and meet increasing energy demands.