ARKANSAS, Oct 7 (Future Headlines)- Hydrobox and SolarNow have jointly unveiled the pioneering Gitwamba Power Plant, an innovative hybrid solar and hydro facility located near Baricho town in Kenya’s Kirinyaga County. This groundbreaking project was officially introduced at the Renewable Energy Forum Africa (REFA), an esteemed investment forum dedicated to renewable energy, organized by AFSIA and SolarPower Europe.

The Gitwamba Power Plant represents a remarkable achievement in the renewable energy landscape. It has been meticulously designed to seamlessly integrate both hydro and solar power systems, making it capable of addressing the seasonal variability in the flow rates of the nearby river. Kenya’s climate is characterized by distinct dry and rainy seasons, leading to significant fluctuations in river flow. During dry spells, the solar array springs into action, providing supplementary electricity. Conversely, during the rainy season, the hydro plant takes the reins, ensuring a consistent and uninterrupted power supply to the residents of Kirinyaga County, day and night.

This innovative facility boasts a robust capacity of 170kW, with its hydropower component equipped with an impressive 50kW installed capacity. Specifically designed to handle a flow rate of 0.65 m³/s, the hydro component plays a pivotal role in securing power supply, especially during the rainy season. Complementing this, the solar component of the Gitwamba Power Plant exhibits an installed capacity of 150kWp, along with a 120 kVA capacity, equivalent to 120kW, further enhancing the plant’s overall capabilities.

The Gitwamba Power Plant serves as a testament to the potential of renewable energy technologies, particularly in regions with variable climatic conditions. By efficiently combining hydro and solar resources, this facility ensures a reliable and sustainable power supply for the local community. This groundbreaking initiative aligns with the global push for cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions and sets a remarkable precedent for future projects in the renewable energy sector.

The successful commissioning of the Gitwamba Power Plant marks a significant milestone in the quest for innovative and adaptive renewable energy solutions. It highlights the importance of diversifying energy sources and harnessing the power of nature to meet the energy needs of communities while minimizing the environmental impact.

As the renewable energy sector continues to evolve, projects like Gitwamba are at the forefront of driving positive change, demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of hybrid energy systems that combine different renewable sources to ensure consistent and reliable power generation. This innovation brings us one step closer to a more sustainable and resilient energy future, where communities can access clean and dependable electricity regardless of seasonal variations in climate.

Reporting by Kevin Wood; Editing by Sarah White