The government has approved a KSh3.45 billion solar street lighting project in Eldoret, a move expected to improve lighting and security in the town.
Treasury CS John Mbadi said the project is part of plans to improve the town, which was recently upgraded to a city.
The cabinet secretary made his statement after the approval of the project by the National Treasury on April 10, paving the way for its progression into discussion on contracts under public-private partnerships.
Upon completion, the project will result in the transition of Eldoret’s lighting from the use of electricity to solar energy. The intention here is to ensure constant lighting of streets, markets, and other public facilities in case of blackouts.
This project will involve the installation of a solar power station which will power street lights and some public facilities, independently of the national grid.
As much as 12,000 new LED street lights are to be installed in the process of implementing this project, in addition to 90 high-mast light towers and more than 2,000 existing defective streetlights that will be repaired.
Critical installations such as roads, parks, traffic signals and government institutions will be incorporated into this network.
It is projected that the lights installed under this program will be not only brighter but smart, having CCTV cameras among other features that allow remote control.
Moreover, it will also spur economic growth since trade will be sustained longer because of good street lighting
According to the county officials, this step will make Eldoret develop into an active 24-hour city.
This development comes close to two years since Eldoret was granted city status, just like Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nakuru.
All being well, this will lead to brighter streets, increased security, and a lively town, even at night.
