Harnessing the Power of Wind in the Kenyan Desert
Lake Turkana Wind Power is a fascinating alternative energy project in the heart of northern Kenya’s semi-arid desert region. It was exciting to witness hundreds of wind turbines generating 310 MW of clean energy with little to no carbon emissions at such a remote location. The Lake provides an idyllic setting for such an ambitious project. Lagoons and rock formations provide an excellent vista, while local tribes such as the Elmolo, Rendille, and Samburu give life to a harsh terrain. During my visit, I learned how the project aims to reduce dependency on traditional thermal power and help lower the cost of energy in Kenya. The region, which has poor infrastructure, is now connected to the national grid, and the wind power is supplied to over one million homes in Kenya.