Nairobi: Kenya’s electricity supply has received a significant boost from increased hydropower generation driven by ongoing heavy rains, even as water levels in key reservoirs remain within safe operational limits, Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) has said.
According to Kenya News Agency, the state power producer reported that sustained inflows into major dams pushed hydropower production to 9.57 million kilowatt-hours on May 4. This increase has strengthened supply to the national grid and eased reliance on costly thermal energy. KenGen Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Peter Njenga confirmed that all dams are operating under controlled conditions, supported by coordinated water releases across the system. Njenga highlighted that the prevailing weather conditions have created an opportunity to maximize low-cost renewable energy while maintaining dam safety.
The gains are largely being realized within the Tana River cascade, which hosts a chain of hydropower dams fed by catchments in Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Range, regions currently experiencing sustained rainfall. At Masinga Dam, the country’s largest reservoir, water levels have slightly exceeded the full supply level, reaching 1,057.43 meters above sea level. However, KenGen stated that the excess remains within the dam’s design capacity, with controlled spillages underway to stabilize the system.
Njenga explained that regulated discharges from Masinga are supporting downstream operations while ensuring power generation units continue to run efficiently. He noted that other dams in the Seven Forks scheme, including Kamburu, Gitaru, and Kindaruma, are operating within normal ranges, sustaining steady output. Meanwhile, Kiambere Dam is marginally above its full supply level but remains under active management, with no immediate risk reported.
Njenga emphasized that hydropower remains among the country’s most economical energy sources, and the increased output may contribute to reduced reliance on thermal generation, a shift that could ease electricity costs for consumers. Despite the positive outlook for power generation, KenGen has cautioned residents living downstream, especially along the Tana River basin, to remain vigilant as controlled water releases continue. Communities in flood-prone areas have also been advised to avoid riverbanks and follow safety guidance from local authorities.
KenGen, which accounts for about 60 percent of Kenya’s installed electricity capacity, stated that it will continue to monitor dam levels and rainfall patterns, issuing updates as necessary to safeguard both power supply and public safety.
