Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) is powering forward with its green energy ambitions, officially launching the prequalification process for a 42.5 MWac solar PV plant and a 3 MW / 4.5 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) at its iconic Seven Forks hydro complex.
Backed by financing from the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), this milestone project underscores Kenya’s growing leadership in renewable energy across Africa.
🌍 A Strategic Push for Clean Energy
Located near Kamburu Dam in Embu County, approximately 150 km northeast of Nairobi, the Seven Forks solar-plus-storage project will not only inject clean energy into the national grid but also enhance grid stability through integrated battery storage.
The scope includes:
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A 42.5 MWac solar PV power plant
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A 3 MW / 4.5 MWh BESS
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A 132kV transmission line and high-voltage substation
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Supporting civil works and local infrastructure
Once completed, the system will help displace fossil fuel reliance, reduce emissions, and complement KenGen’s existing hydro generation in the area.
🏗️ Design & Build: Call for Top-Tier Engineering Firms
KenGen is seeking up to seven qualified contractors through an initial selection process. The successful applicants will be invited to participate in the next phase—a competitive Design & Build tender for the entire project.
Application deadline:
🗓️ 29 July 2025, 10:00 a.m. (EAT)
📍 Applications will be opened publicly on the same day at 10:30 a.m.
📥 Download the full tender documents from: tenders.kengen.co.ke
📌 Note: Late submissions will not be considered. Clarification requests must be submitted no later than 14 days before the deadline.
📊 What It Takes to Qualify
Only top-tier firms with proven experience in utility-scale renewable projects need apply. Key eligibility criteria include:
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Minimum USD 100 million annual turnover (3-year average)
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Access to USD 13 million in liquid financial resources
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Demonstrated experience in solar PV, BESS, and high-voltage infrastructure
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Certifications: ISO 9001, 14001, 45001
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Proven track record in environmental and social compliance
KenGen is also placing strong emphasis on local skills transfer, health and safety standards, and ESG performance—ensuring the project benefits both the community and the climate.
⚡ Why This Project Matters
Kenya already sources over 80% of its electricity from renewables, and the Seven Forks project is another bold step toward carbon neutrality and energy resilience.
“This is more than just a solar project—it’s part of a national mission to decarbonize Kenya’s energy future while driving innovation and investment in local infrastructure,” said a KenGen official.
For engineering giants, renewable innovators, and EPC firms ready to make an impact in Africa’s energy transition, this is a high-profile opportunity to help shape one of the continent’s most forward-looking energy systems.
Ready to power Kenya’s next renewable leap?
Submit your credentials, and help build a cleaner, brighter future—starting at Seven Forks.
