Chinese firms to develop Kenya's largest solar power plant
DEVELOPMENT
By BiztechAfrica - Sept. 28, 2012, 10:06 a.m.
JinkoSolar, a Chinese-based global solar power product manufacturer, has announced it has signed a cooperative agreement with the China Jiangxi Corporation for International Economic & Technical Co (CJIC) to provide technical support for CJIC's 50MW solar power project development in Kenya.
Under the agreement, JinkoSolar is also appointed by CJIC as the preferred module supplier for this project.
The project is planned to occupy 81 hectare and is expected to be one of the largest grid connected solar power plants in Africa. Located in northwest city of Garissa, Kenya, the plant is expected to produce approximately 76,473 megawatts hours per year, reducing yearly carbon emissions by 64,190 tons and saving coal consumption by 24,470 tons annually.
With an arid climate and a vast desert landmass, Garissa is geographically optimal for harnessing solar power. The pre-assembled modular approach is planned by JinkoSolar to facilitate installation and future operation and maintenance. Additionally, pouring pile and spiral pile design will be utilised to protect local vegetation. The introduction of solar energy is expected to generate significant value for Kenya's energy landscape, by ensuring sustainable opportunities for diversified economic growth.
"We are extremely impressed with quality of JinkoSolar's products and expertise in design and engineering." said Guojian Xu, General Manager of CJIC. "Through cooperation, we hope to build a long-term relationship to harness both our unique advantages and open a new chapter for the construction of PV power plants in Africa."
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