Case Study: Empowering Kenya's Last Mile Connectivity with Reliable Distribution Solutions

Project Snapshot:

Utility: Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC)

Project: Last Mile Connectivity Project (LMCP) 

Location: Kenya

COMKING contribution: Customized modular power distribution equipment

The Challenge

Kenya’s Last Mile Connectivity Project was launched to bring electricity closer to households and businesses that remained beyond the practical reach of the existing distribution network.

The programme extended low-voltage networks around existing and newly installed distribution transformers. Its second phase was planned around approximately 45,000 distribution transformers across Kenya’s 47 counties, with around 300,000 new residential connections targeted under the wider programme.[1]

At this scale, connecting more customers was only part of the task. The expanded network also required reliable switching, protection and metering equipment that could meet Kenya Power’s technical requirements and operate across widely distributed locations.

Voltage quality was another practical consideration. The LMCP design focused on customers located within an appropriate distance of distribution transformers because longer low-voltage extensions can lead to voltage drop and reduced power quality.[2]

For project partners and equipment suppliers, the challenge was therefore clear: support network expansion without losing sight of equipment reliability, protection, installation efficiency and long-term operation.

COMKING's Solution

COMKING provided a high-protection, maintenance-free and modular integrated distribution solution designed for the operating demands of Kenya’s last-mile network.

The solution brought together the switching, metering and protection functions required for distributed grid deployment. The equipment package included ring main units, 11 kV metering breaker switchgear panels, switchboards, outdoor metering units, distribution fuse panels, marshalling kiosks and panel enclosures fitted with current transformers and vacuum circuit breakers.

The engineering design focused on two key technical challenges: Significant voltage drop at the ends of long distribution lines, and equipment reliability under high temperatures, high humidity and frequent lightning.

By coordinating the required distribution functions within a modular equipment package, COMKING simplified deployment across widely dispersed project locations. The high-protection and maintenance-free design also helped reduce the inspection and maintenance burden associated with equipment operating in remote areas.

Through this solution, COMKING supported the wider LMCP objective of optimising approximately 45,000 distribution transformers across Kenya’s 47 counties and connecting around 300,000 new customers to the national grid.

Recognised by Kenya Power

Kenya Power issued a reference letter covering electrical equipment supplied by COMKING.

The letter records that the equipment met KPLC requirements and specifications, based on inspection, acceptance testing and field performance assessment within the transmission and distribution network.

“The offered designs of the subject products are of high quality, good workmanship and good engineering practice.”

— Manager, Standards, Kenya Power
Reference Letter

Kenya Power’s Standards Manager also recommended the listed COMKING products to end users seeking a similar range of electrical equipment.

This recognition provides an important measure of the project’s success. It connects COMKING’s manufacturing and delivery work with utility inspection, acceptance testing and observed performance in the field.

About COMKING

COMKING is a leading provider of integrated power distribution solutions. From R&D and manufacturing to global delivery and technical support, we are committed to empowering global grids with reliable, innovative, and sustainable electrical equipment.

For more information, visit www.comkingpower.com.

Source：

[1] Kenya Power — Last Mile Connectivity

[2] African Development Bank — Kenya Last Mile Connectivity Project Phase II Appraisal Report