The government on Wednesday projected a potential reduction in electricity prices after the cabinet was informed of a substantial rise in water levels at Masinga Dam.
Cabinet pointed out that because of the bountiful rains experienced since October 2023, improved generation at major hydroelectric plants had been recorded which the government projects will culminate in lower electricity prices across the nation.
"The meeting was informed that there is a substantial rise of water levels at Masinga Dam, the main storage of the Seven Fork. Consequently, the prospects of generating cheaper hydropower are very high and thus cheaper prices for Kenyan," read part of the cabinet dispatch.
It is expected that the resulting benefits of a more affordable energy mix will offer relief to Kenyan consumers as their electricity bills will decrease over this period.
"Cabinet directed that priority be given to the green generation mix in power dispatch, particularly hydroelectricity," read the dispatch.
The government however warned that despite the reduction in electricity prices due to the rise in water levels at Masinga dam, the government is wary of the spill-over risks resulting from the heavy rainfall.
"In the Eastern region, both Masinga and Kiambere dams within the Seven Forks Cascade are expected to start spilling over from April 2024," the cabinet pointed out.
"In the western region, despite notable increases in water levels at Sondu/Sang'aro and Turkwell Dams, spill-over is not projected. However, in central Kenya, the Karumeno Dam in Kiambu is expected to spill over."
The government stated it had set up a spill-over mitigation infrastructure to curb potential floodings due to overflow. The cabinet assured the public that there was no imminent danger in the event of regulated spill-overs.
The Cabinet also urged all Kenyans residing near dams and all road users to remain vigilant.
Ruto's latest prospect comes a week after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) announced new regulations that will enable private firms to distribute electricity across the country.
The new regulations will cover various aspects including generation, importation, exportation, transmission, distribution, and retail supply.
EPRA not that the new energy regulations were established after independent power producers raised concerns over non-inclusion in the process of producing and distributing power.
