Two Rivers to Expand Solar Capacity from 1.2MW to 3.2MW

Landmark Project: Two Rivers to Expand Solar Capacity from 1.2MW to 3.2MW

In a significant move for East Africa’s renewable energy sector, the Two Rivers complex in Nairobi is set to host the region’s largest rooftop solar installation for a mixed-use development. Through a strategic partnership between Centum Real Estate (Centum Re) and Distributed Power Africa-Kenya (DPA-K), Two Rivers Power Company will more than double its solar generation, increasing its capacity from 1.2 megawatts (MW) to 3.2 MW. This expansion solidifies the complex’s commitment to sustainable urban development and energy independence.

Two Rivers Power Company, which operates under the Two Rivers International Finance and Innovation Centre (TRIFIC) Special Economic Zone and Centum Re, is poised to provide enhanced energy security for the premier development. The project underscores a broader private-sector trend towards embracing advanced solar power to ensure stable, long-term energy costs while reducing reliance on the national grid.

Powering a Sustainable Urban Hub

The increased capacity will directly benefit the diverse tenants and residents within the Two Rivers complex, which includes a major shopping mall, office spaces, and residential units. For businesses operating within the TRIFIC SEZ, the project promises significant value. “This is an important value addition for businesses setting up within the TRIFIC SEZ,” said Brenda Mbathi, CEO of TRIFIC. “It lowers the cost of power and reduces the carbon footprint, which is becoming an imperative for businesses as the world looks to operate more sustainably.”

This sentiment was echoed by Kenneth Mbae, Managing Director of Centum Re, who noted the project’s strategic importance. “This development enhances Centum Re’s green credentials as a major property developer and ensures a clean and reliable supply of electricity for our tenants,” he stated. The expansion of the existing 1.2 MW photovoltaic installation, located at the Two Rivers Mall substation, is a core component of this vision.

Innovative Energy Solutions by DPA-Kenya

The collaboration is facilitated by DPA-K, a subsidiary of the global energy firm EDF, which specializes in delivering renewable energy solutions without requiring upfront capital investment from its clients. This model eliminates technical and operational risks, allowing businesses to focus on their core activities while benefiting from sustainable electricity.

Anthony Mburu, CEO of DPA-K, highlighted the transformative potential of such projects. “Harnessing the African sun and space creates the greatest opportunity for the continent’s energy transition,” he explained. “Rooftops and empty grounds now become a powerhouse, enabling you to begin saving, securing your energy supply at a predictable price, and focusing on your core business.” By leveraging Kenya’s abundant sunshine, this partnership not only bolsters the complex’s clean energy systems but also sets a new benchmark for large-scale commercial and residential developments across Africa.

Sources

1. Centum’s Solar Bet: Powering Profits or Just Hype?
2. Centum Re Expands Solar Power at Two Rivers – Watt’s Up Africa
3. Centum Re to double solar power output at Two Rivers
4. Two Rivers Mall: Building a Sustainable Future for East …
5. Two Rivers Complex in Nairobi to increase solar capacity …
6. Two Rivers Solar Expansion to Boost Renewable Energy …
7. Centum expands solar power capacity at Two Rivers …