Nairobi, Kenya – Today, the U.S. Trade and Development Agency signed two grants that leverage U.S. technology solutions and investment to increase access to affordable, reliable electricity in Kenya.

USTDA is partnering with Kenyan company, Xago Africa Limited, on developing a utility scale solar photovoltaic power plant with battery storage in Siaya County, Kenya. North Carolina-based Alevo USA, Inc., a battery storage technology manufacturer will provide technology and analytics services for the project. The plant will be among the first utility-scale battery storage installations in Sub-Saharan Africa.  

“Energy storage will transform transmission networks,” said Paul W. Webb, Xago Managing Director. “It will rapidly accelerate the take-up of renewables, and we are proud to be partnering Alevo, which leads the field in battery technology and network analytics.”

USTDA signed an additional grant with the Kenya Electricity Generating Company Limited (KenGen) for a study assessing the use of U.S. technology solutions to increase energy efficiency and power production. Nevada-based energy equipment manufacturer, Langson Energy, Inc., is conducting the study in partnership with KenGen.

“USTDA is pleased to facilitate new business partnerships between U.S. and Kenyan companies that can spur long-term, sustainable economic growth,” said Sub-Saharan Africa Regional Director Lida Fitts. “The adoption of innovative and cost-effective U.S. technology can help Kenya to meet its energy development goals.”  

U.S. Ambassador to Kenya, Robert F. Godec, signed the grants on behalf of USTDA, at a ceremony in Nairobi, Kenya, along with Eng. Albert Mugo, KenGen MD & CEO, and Xago Managing Director, Paul W. Webb.