Treasury Approves Sh3.45B Solar Project to Transform Eldoret Street Lighting and Security

Eldoret City is set for a major transformation after the National Treasury approved a Sh3.45 billion project aimed at modernising street lighting and improving urban safety. The project will introduce solar-powered infrastructure designed to make the city more efficient, secure, and energy independent.

The approval, confirmed on April 10, clears the way for the project to move into contract negotiations under the Public-Private Partnership model. Officials say this marks a key step in upgrading Eldoret into a modern urban centre with sustainable energy systems.

The plan includes the development of a 3MW solar photovoltaic power plant supported by a 9MWh battery storage system. This system will power street lighting and selected municipal facilities, reducing reliance on the national grid and ensuring continuous lighting even during outages.

A major focus of the project is upgrading public lighting across the city. About 12,000 new LED streetlights will be installed, along with 90 high-mast towers. In addition, over 2,000 non-functional lights will be repaired to improve visibility and safety in different neighbourhoods.

The system will also introduce smart technology. New streetlights will come fitted with integrated CCTV cameras and intelligent control systems. These features are expected to enhance surveillance, improve response times, and support urban security efforts.

The infrastructure will be supported by a fibre-optic network that will allow real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance. This is expected to reduce operational costs while ensuring faster repairs and better system management.

Project coordinator Silas Leting said the initiative is part of a broader vision to modernise the city. “Eldoret City is positioning itself to match the standards of modern cities in developed nations, where innovation, safety, and sustainability drive urban growth,” he stated.

The project comes shortly after Eldoret was elevated to city status, becoming Kenya’s fifth city. Local leaders believe the upgrade will help stimulate economic activity and extend business hours.

Authorities expect improved lighting to boost safety, reduce crime, and support a growing 24-hour economy. As implementation begins, Eldoret is positioning itself as a model for smart, green urban development in the region.