SMEC’s multidisciplinary team adopted a structured approach, balancing technical precision with innovative engineering solutions. The project unfolded in distinct phases:

• Inception: SMEC began with a thorough review of existing documentation and grid infrastructure. A kick-off meeting with stakeholders set the stage for collaboration, ensuring alignment on priorities and deliverables. Findings and recommendations were consolidated into a comprehensive Inception Report, laying the foundation for subsequent stages.
• Design and Pre-Construction: Detailed technical evaluations and gap analyses were conducted to assess substation automation, control, and metering systems. Preliminary designs were updated to meet international standards, with particular attention to SCADA, telecommunication, and protection systems. SMEC developed robust cost estimates and procurement concepts, enabling transparent decision-making.
• Procurement: Adhering to KfW Procurement Guidelines, SMEC prepared Pre-Qualification (PQ) and Bidding Documents. These outlined clear qualification criteria, evaluation frameworks, and technical specifications, ensuring the selection of competent contractors.
• ESHS and Gender Equality Integration: Environmental, social, health, and safety (ESHS) measures were embedded in the project design to minimise potential impacts. SMEC also conducted a gender equality analysis, recommending strategies to enhance inclusion within KETRACO’s operations.
• Capacity Building: SMEC emphasised knowledge transfer, proposing training programs to equip KETRACO engineers with the skills necessary for long-term system maintenance and operation.

SMEC’s approach to the Grid Strengthening Project – Lot B Secondary Systems balances technical expertise with a deep understanding of Kenya’s diverse energy needs. The tailored strategy focuses on upgrading automation systems, enhancing metering capabilities, and addressing regional disparities to deliver a robust, reliable power grid.

The project focuses on the National Control Center (NCC) and 34 strategically selected substations across Kenya, aiming to achieve maximum operational impact:

• Western and Lake Basin Region: Substations in Kisumu, Chemosit, and Kitale are critical for powering agricultural and industrial hubs. Upgrades here aim to bolster reliability in regions with growing demand.
• Northern and Eastern Kenya: Remote substations like Isiolo, Garissa, and Loyangalani address the unique challenges of underserved areas. These upgrades are poised to expand electrification efforts, improve energy access, and support economic growth in historically marginalised regions.
• Urban and Industrial Centers: Densely clustered substations in Nairobi, Athi River, and Suswa serve Kenya’s economic heartland, where stable power is vital for industries, businesses, and urban communities. Enhanced automation systems will ensure resilience and scalability as energy needs grow.
• Coastal Areas: Substations like Rabai and Galu support the tourism-driven coastal economy. Improved grid performance here reduces reliance on costly and polluting backup power solutions.

Each substation was assessed based on its unique needs, resulting in three distinct intervention categories:

• Metering-Only Upgrades: Focused on enhancing energy monitoring and reducing system losses, these upgrades are critical for financial sustainability and operational transparency.
• Substation Automation System (SAS) Upgrades: Modernising outdated control systems ensures rapid response to grid disturbances and improves overall grid stability.
• Combined SAS and Metering Upgrades: Substations requiring comprehensive upgrades represent critical nodes in the grid, where reliability and efficiency are paramount.

By addressing these challenges at a local level, SMEC’s methodology ensures that resources are allocated effectively, while aligning with broader national priorities. Each intervention is designed to deliver measurable outcomes:

• Reduction in technical and commercial losses through advanced metering.
• Faster response times and improved operational efficiency with upgraded automation systems.
• Expanded energy access and grid stability for remote and underserved regions.

Impact: A Resilient Grid for a Prosperous Future

This carefully coordinated effort integrates Kenya’s Vision 2030 goals, delivering solutions that meet current demands while laying the groundwork for future growth. SMEC’s expertise ensures that these upgrades are not just technical fixes, but transformative steps toward a more equitable, efficient, and sustainable energy future.

The project directly contributes to Kenya’s Vision 2030 by modernising its national grid infrastructure. Key outcomes will include:

• Enhanced power supply reliability and reduced technical losses, supporting industrial and commercial growth.
• Improved grid stability, enabling expanded electrification in underserved regions.
• Immediate reliability improvements in critical substations.
• A more sustainable energy sector, aligned with international environmental and social standards.
• SMEC addressed immediate technical challenges and provided long-term value through strategic planning, innovative design, and capacity building. This initiative underscores SMEC’s commitment to simplifying complexity and engineering positive change, delivering solutions that drive sustainable development.