KEY POINTS
- Makueni Hospital’s solar system cuts energy bills by Ksh 700,000 monthly.
- The system meets up to 33% of the hospital’s energy needs and ensures reliable power.
- The county plans to expand solar power to other healthcare facilities.
Makueni County Referral Hospital in Kenya has installed a new solar power system to help solve its ongoing electricity problems. The hospital, which serves about 500 patients daily, now meets 30-33% of its energy needs with clean, renewable energy. This solar photovoltaic (PV) system will generate 288MWh annually, cutting the county government’s energy costs significantly.
Before the solar system was installed, the hospital’s power bill exceeded Ksh 1.8 million monthly. Since the installation, energy costs have dropped, with bills falling to Ksh 1.1 million in June 2024 and Ksh 1.2 million in July. This results in monthly savings of up to Ksh 700,000, or about $55,000 each year, according to the county government.
Stable Power and Environmental Benefits
The solar system also provides a reliable power source, especially during frequent power outages. Makueni County Governor Mutula Kilonzo highlighted how crucial this is, stating, “The solar system will ensure consistent power and reduce disruptions to critical medical services.” The stability offered by this system will make a big difference for both patients and hospital staff.
Beyond cost savings, the project also has significant environmental advantages. Dr. Paul Musila, the county’s Health Services Chief Executive, emphasized that reducing the hospital’s reliance on grid electricity will lower its carbon footprint. This aligns with broader goals to promote sustainability in the region.
Plans for Healthcare Expansion
With savings from lower electricity bills, Makueni County plans to reinvest in the hospital, improving patient care and infrastructure. Governor Kilonzo announced future projects, including the construction of a new intensive care unit, surgical center, and private wing at the hospital. These upgrades aim to further enhance the quality of healthcare available in the county.
Looking ahead, Makueni County aims to expand solar power to other healthcare facilities. Currently, 68 facilities in the county are not connected to the grid and those that are connected face high electricity costs. According to ESI Africa, an analysis by the World Resources Institute (WRI) showed that 73% of the county’s health facilities could be powered using standalone solar systems, with the remaining 27% relying on grid electricity.
