The Lake Turkana Wind Power (LTWP) farm located in Laisamis constituency of Marsabit County generated 1,481 GWh of clean energy in 2023 into the national grid.
The LTWP, which is the largest wind power project in Africa, offset 605,428 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions over the same period, contributing immensely to climate change mitigation efforts.
The revelation was made during the company’s launch of its sustainability report for the year under review held at the firm’s site in Loiyangalani, stating that renewable energy from LTWP accounted for 11.04 per cent of the country’s electricity generation.
LTWP Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Max Schiff said during the launch that through the firm’s Wind of Change Foundation, many socio-economic dimension projects that include water projects, school infrastructure, and improved and equipped health facilities which benefitted about 70,000 residents in all parts of the constituency were implemented.
Notably, Schiff said the company provided emergency food relief to 17,700 students in 67 schools within its catchment area, which ensured that there was retention of the learners in school for one term as the area was ravaged by drought.
“We also delivered healthcare to 226 people in partnership with Mission to Heal,” he pointed out, saying the efforts underscored LTWP’s commitment to the development of the local communities by ensuring that they have access to quality health, water, and education services.
The CEO said the project was not only focused on providing clean and renewable energy but to positively impact on the local community by continuously improving access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities that include employment.
In his remarks, LTWP Board Chairman Mr. Mugo Kibati, emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships, adding that the project was committed to impactful community development.
Mr. Kibati noted that the LTWP project stands as a testament to what strategic partnership could achieve in terms of development, adding that the development interventions done have made local communities resilient.
“Our cooperation with the national government and other key stakeholders has been crucial in advancing Kenya’s renewable energy goals. We remain committed to continuing our work in transforming lives in Marsabit County and beyond,” he said, adding that the firm was proud to be part of Kenya’s endeavour for a sustainable and prosperous country.
According to the report, significant savings in both financial and carbon costs were delivered to Kenyans through the development of the LTWP power plant, the largest privately owned investment in the country.
The board chairman noted that the LTWP project was a major Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), which has greatly boosted the country’s economy besides enhancing Kenya’s global standing as a preferred investment destination in Africa and beyond.
The presentation also provided an avenue for the company to restate its commitment to continued environmental protection, corporate social responsibility, and economic development within its area of operation.
By Sebastian Miriti
