Hydrobox and SolarNow have announced the successful commissioning of their inaugural hybrid solar and hydro power plant, situated near Baricho town in Kenya's Kirinyaga County. The project was revealed at the Renewable Energy Forum Africa (REFA), an investment forum dedicated to renewable energy organized by AFSIA and SolarPower Europe.
Named the Gitwamba Power Plant, this facility was designed to seamlessly integrate hydro and solar power systems, addressing the erratic flow rates of the nearby river, which fluctuate dramatically between Kenya's dry and rainy seasons. During dry spells, the solar array steps in to provide additional electricity, while the hydro plant takes over during the rainy season, ensuring a consistent power supply for the residents of Kirinyaga County day and night.
The Gitwamba plant boasts a capacity of 170kW, with the hydropower component possessing a 50kW installed capacity, designed to handle a flow of 0.65 m³/s. The solar component features an installed capacity of 150kWp and a 120 kVA capacity, equivalent to 120kW.
