KenGen, Kenya's state owned power generator, has begun the installation of SCADA (Supervisory, Control and Data Acquisition) system for its six main hydro stations.

When completed, the new system will enable remote control of Masinga, Kamburu, Gitaru, Kindaruma, Kiambere and Turkwel power stations from Kamburu. It will also connect managers at the firm’s main offices in Stima Plaza, Nairobi, with the plants, allowing them to review their status online.

The project, which also involves automating the stations and upgrading Kamburu control centre, is being implemented by Spanish firm Iberdrola Ingeniera Y Construccio, and will be completed by December next year.

When fully implemented, the new system will increase the number of machines, with the aim of raising efficiency in water use and management, resulting in a more reliable power supply. Iberdola was selected after bidding by seven local and international companies.