Posted on :Monday , 27th October 2025

Eldoret City is about to undergo a significant change as Uasin Gishu County initiates a Sh3 billion solar street lighting project to improve the city's safety and energy efficiency. The project, which is a component of a long-term infrastructure plan, is anticipated to improve urban security, slash energy costs, lessen the city's carbon impact, and increase investor confidence. More than 20,000 adaptive LED streetlights with CCTV surveillance cameras and smart controls for remote monitoring, adaptive illumination, and predictive maintenance are part of the proposal. Kenya's fifth city's solar street lighting project supports the county's goal of being a leader in the use of clean energy and intelligent urban design.

The project will entail building a 3MWp solar power producing plant with a 10MWh storage capacity, according to the Uasin Gishu county authority. To enhance connectivity and digital infrastructure, a 200-kilometer subterranean distribution network will also be built and connected with fiber optic wiring.

According to Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii, the project, which will be carried out through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with Rayuton Seko Energy Ltd., a partnership between Kenya and the Czech Republic, will greatly reduce electricity costs and enhance public safety throughout the city.

"We are eager to transform our people's way of life, and the project will be revolutionary thanks to this collaboration. It is a component of the promise I made to locals during the campaigns," Mr. Bii stated. "It will power the street lights as a 3MWp solar power plant with a 10MWh energy storage system, reducing energy costs and our carbon footprint," He added.  

The initiative's long-term viability was emphasized by Anthony Sitienei, the County Executive Committee Member for Energy.  

"We are creating a smarter, greener city, not just adding lights. Service delivery will be permanently impacted by the contemporary infrastructure and lower energy prices," according to Anthony Sitienei.

In line with Kenya's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) on climate change, the county projects that the system will lower crime rates, increase traffic safety, extend safe working hours to encourage a nighttime economy, and cut public lighting expenditures by as much as 50%.  

Mr. Mark Some, the county chief officer for energy, cited past accomplishments with experimental solar installations at the county headquarters, where the transition to solar energy reduced monthly electricity bills from Sh800,000 to Sh200,000.  

"The findings are already available at the county offices. Countywide savings will be multiplied by this effort," stated Anthony Sitienei, the County Executive Committee Member for Energy.

"This project offers an example for other counties by combining ICT, urban planning, and renewable energy. Every ward will benefit from increased internet connectivity and street safety," Mr. Silas added.

In order to include residents in the design of the 15-year project, which consists of a three-year construction phase, thirteen years of operation and maintenance, and finally transfer to the county government, the county is now holding public participation forums throughout all wards. Improved street lighting will enable companies to operate for longer hours, which will enhance the local economy, according to local retailers who have praised the move.  

In accordance to Mr. Willy Kenei, chairperson of the Kenya Chamber of Commerce, North Rift, "Businesses can operate beyond daylight hours with reliable lighting, boosting the local economy and promoting growth." Eldoret would become more appealing to investors and establish itself as a regional commercial center as a result of the lower energy costs and improved infrastructure.

Speaking at a public meeting at Eldoret County Hall, Ms. Mary Sang stated that the initiative might change the future of the city. She stated, "We are in support of this project because we want to benefit from it," adding that it provides a ray of hope for a more promising and sustainable future.  

In conclusion, young people are optimistic that the project will generate jobs throughout both the building and maintenance stages.  

Mr. Kennedy Yego, a Moiben Sub-County resident, stated, "The project is expected to create employment, especially for us youths."