Arlington, VA – The U.S. Trade and Development Agency signed a grant with Saigrene Energy Kenya Limited supporting the development of run-of-river hydroelectric plants at five sites in Kenya.

The grant funds a feasibility study that will evaluate the viability of the sites for power generation and examines the best approach for connecting the sites to the national grid. The five plants would collectively add approximately 17 megawatts of renewable energy to Kenya’s generation mix. The study will allow the developers to identify U.S. equipment manufacturers and service providers that are well-positioned to outfit the hydroelectric plants.

“USTDA is pleased to support this important study that will provide opportunities for U.S. industry to supply products and services, while advancing Kenya’s power goals,” said Lida Fitts, USTDA’s Regional Director for Sub-Saharan Africa.

“In addition to providing opportunities for the use of high quality U.S. equipment and expertise, the plants will also provide numerous benefits to the local community, such as job creation, and technical skills training for the youth,” said Paulo Gonçalves, Chief Executive Officer of Saigrene Energy Kenya Limited.

The U.S. engineering and environmental consultancy, Knight Piésold (Denver, CO), was selected to perform the feasibility study.