In a move to reduce on fuel emissions, Kenyatta University has launched a Center of Excellence focused on the generation of solar energy. The Sh59 million centre, which is supported by the French government was launched at the university as Nairobi hosted the third United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA).
This also saw the construction of a 100kWp pilot solar PV plant through the technical help of Urbasolar, a French engineering consultant, being unveiled at the university.
During the commissioning of the project, Nicholas Hulot, France’s Minister for Ecological and Inclusive Transition, was present to show the commitment of the French government towards cutting down on fuel emissions in line with the global agenda of UNEP to create a pollution-free planet.
“I want to let the Kenyan authorities know that the French government will support these ambitious choices and that French companies have the expertise to bring innovative solutions to meet these needs, as we have successfully demonstrated here today with Urbasolar. This project is a symbol of what the French government believes it should do when it wants to be at the forefront of the global battle against climate change,” he said.
His government, he said, will continuously support efforts aimed at promotion of renewable energy generation, which is the core of the Paris agreement on climate change. At the same time, he applauded Kenya on its move to adopt alternative power generation plans that would see the eradication of fossil fuel combustion.
“Renewable energy is the way to earn your energy dependency and I believe Kenya should be commended for successfully demonstrating that it is possible to combine an ambitious development agenda alongside championing the development of renewable energy,” he said.
The solar project, CS Energy and Petroleum, Charles Keter said, would be a turning point in innovation research around renewable energy. He also extolled France for the support they have given the country towards improving the uptake of solar-generated energy.
“Over the past few years, we have received the support of over €800 million and we want to continue collaborating in doing many other things in the years to come,” the CS said.
