Wind Energy

Photovoltaic solar energy in Kenya

Chloride Exide MD Guy Jack and marketing manager Louis Nyamweya told customers in Nyeri on Saturday that the factory, a joint venture with a Dutch company that manufactures solar cells and framings, will enable more Kenyans to buy solar equipment. "We are happy that the government had set the right climate for a higher uptake of solar and wind energy technology by zero-rating duty and VAT on equipment for the two forms of alternative energy," said Nyamweya.

Nyamweya said potential customers should not be scared by the initial cost of solar energy systems, saying they should look at the long term savings on power bills and the benefits to the economy. "We have established a recycling plant at Athi River that ensures all parts of expired batteries, especially lead and plastic, are reused to make new products," he added.

Jack said following the company’s expansion into the East and Central African market, it is manufacturing 50,000 batteries, to be increases to 65,000 in the short term and 100,000 in three years. Nyamweya said that in partnership with a local bank, the company had worked out a financing system that would enable institutions and individuals interested in investing in alternative energy access the necessary technology. "Among our products are hybrid systems that combine solar and wind energy that are ideal for institutions in remote rural areas not covered by the national grid," he said.

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