GE Vernova is an energy technology company that provides equipment, services, and software for power generation, renewable energy, grid handling, storage, and electrification. It was spun off from General Electric in April 2024, bringing together GE’s former energy businesses under one brand. The company operates globally, with a presence across Africa, Asia, Europe, and beyond, focusing on technologies that drive the energy transition.

GE Vernova’s Activities in Kenya
National System Control Center (NSCC)

GE Vernova, working in partnership with Larsen & Toubro (L&T), is developing Kenya’s advanced National System Control Center (NSCC). The project includes:

A Main Control Centre in Embakasi equipped with advanced grid software, substation automation, monitoring, and communication systems.

An Emergency Control Centre in Suswa with similar systems plus Enterprise Asset Management for better oversight of transmission operations.

The technology suite includes advanced energy management, wide-area monitoring, condition monitoring, substation automation, and asset performance management software. Financing for the project is provided by development partners, and completion is expected within three years. The project aims to improve grid reliability, efficiency, and enable better integration of renewable energy sources, supporting Kenya’s target of universal electricity access by 2030.

Kipeto Wind Power Project

GE, now under the GE Vernova umbrella, also played a key role in the Kipeto wind project, one of Kenya’s largest wind farms. The project, located in Kajiado County, features 60 GE turbines and has added 100 MW of clean energy capacity to the grid. It was developed in partnership with private investors and development financiers, contributing significantly to Kenya’s renewable energy mix.

Significance for Kenya

Grid modernization: The NSCC project will give Kenya a more modern, flexible, and reliable electricity transmission system.

Operational efficiency: Real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance will reduce outages and improve performance.

Renewable integration: These upgrades support the seamless integration of solar, wind, and geothermal power into the grid.

Energy goals: The initiatives support Kenya’s vision of universal electricity access by 2030 and broader sustainability targets.

Skills and technology transfer: Projects bring expertise and capacity building, helping to strengthen local technical capabilities.

Key Challenges

Timelines: Large infrastructure projects often face delays.

Costs: Managing expenses and avoiding overruns will be crucial.

Skills: Operating advanced grid technologies requires a well-trained workforce.

Renewable variability: Even with modern systems, integrating variable energy sources poses operational challenges.

Policy environment: Strong regulation and supportive policies are needed for long-term success.