The Government plans to set up a 1,000MW of nuclear power by 2023 in a bid to increase its power capacity across the country. Kenya Nuclear Electricity Board (KNEB) is behind the project with pre-feasibility studies having been finalized, paving way for detailed studies on where the plants will be established and nuclear waste management. This was announced in the recently concluded third edition conference on Energy and Nuclear Power in Africa, which was held on April 13-15, 2015 in Mombasa.
According to the Board’s chair, Ochilo Ayacko noted that the country is on course to deliver nuclear power plants. “We have concluded the pre-feasibility studies and I can confirm that nuclear power is a viable option in Kenya’s energy mix. We look to have the first plant up and running by 2023,”Ayako remarked.
In addition, the Government seeks to establish four nuclear power plants with a capacity to generate 1,000 MW each to be operational by 2031.
The conference was organized under the umbrella of a regional International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) technical cooperation project on developing and reinforcing energy planning capabilities, in collaboration with the Republic of Kenya. It attracted 150 experts and decision makers, including Ministers, senior officials, and representatives from national and international organizations involved in the energy field.
The conference also provided an opportunity for Member States to present and discuss national and regional energy development strategies, the potential role of nuclear power, and its benefits and costs, in the energy mix. Member States were offered an opportunity to network, discuss the challenges of sustainable energy development, and gain knowledge about the IAEA’s guidance when considering the nuclear power option and deciding on approaches. It also provided a forum for exchanges between decision makers and energy professionals on energy and nuclear power planning.
Nuclear energy is a reliable and affordable clean source of energy.
