GE Vernova, in partnership with Larsen & Toubro, has been selected to deliver a next-generation National System Control Center (NSCC) for Kenya Electricity Transmission Company, aimed at strengthening the monitoring and management of Kenya’s national power grid.

The project includes the construction of two state-of-the-art facilities: a primary control center in Embakasi and a backup emergency center in Suswa. Both sites will be equipped with advanced grid software, substation automation systems, and modern communication infrastructure to support efficient and reliable electricity transmission across the country. The contract was secured in early 2025.

Supporting Kenya’s Energy Ambitions

Kenya is pursuing an ambitious energy strategy focused on universal electricity access by 2030, alongside a transition toward cleaner and more efficient power systems. Achieving these targets requires significant investment in grid expansion, generation capacity, and digital infrastructure, including smart grid technologies that optimize transmission and consumption.

The new NSCC will play a central role in enabling these goals by improving grid visibility, operational control, and integration of renewable energy sources.

Scope and Technology Deployment

Under the agreement, GE Vernova will lead the consortium through its Grid Solutions division, delivering advanced technologies from its Electrification Software and Grid Automation portfolios. Key components include solutions from the GridOS® platform—such as Advanced Energy Management Systems (AEMS) and Wide Area Management Systems (WAMS)—alongside Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) tools and GridBeats™ applications for asset performance, condition monitoring, and substation automation.

Meanwhile, Larsen & Toubro will be responsible for all civil engineering works, including the construction of both greenfield control centers, installation of equipment, and support for system integration, testing, and commissioning. The full project timeline is estimated at approximately three years.

Enhancing Grid Reliability and Performance

According to leadership at KETRACO, the new system will significantly improve the country’s ability to manage rising electricity demand, maintain grid stability, and enhance power quality. It is also expected to accelerate the integration of renewable energy into the national network, a key requirement for Kenya’s long-term sustainability objectives.

From GE Vernova’s perspective, the project demonstrates its capability to deliver complex, end-to-end grid modernization programs that combine advanced software, automation hardware, and integrated financing solutions.

International Financing and Collaboration

The initiative is supported through a financing partnership with the French Development Agency and the French Treasury, reflecting strong international cooperation in advancing Kenya’s energy infrastructure. Additional backing includes support from the European Union focused on capacity building.

This financial structure underscores the importance of combining technical innovation with accessible funding mechanisms to enable large-scale infrastructure development in emerging markets.

The Role of a National System Control Center

An NSCC functions as the operational core of a country’s electricity network. It enables real-time monitoring, control, and optimization of power flows across the grid. By providing system operators with immediate visibility and actionable data, it helps prevent outages, stabilize voltage and frequency, and ensure efficient integration of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and geothermal power.

About GE Vernova

GE Vernova is a global energy company focused on advancing electrification and decarbonization. With operations spanning more than 100 countries, the company combines expertise in power generation, renewable energy, and grid technologies to support the global energy transition. Its Grid Solutions and Electrification Software businesses play a central role in enabling modern, resilient, and sustainable electricity networks worldwide.

Forward-looking statements: This summary includes projections and expectations regarding future developments, which are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, including market conditions, regulatory approvals, and project execution factors.

Source