East Africa’s leading steel manufacturer, Abyssinia Steel, has taken a major leap towards sustainable energy with a 25-year power purchase agreement with Norway’s Empower New Energy. This partnership marks Empower New Energy’s first investment in Kenya and paves the way for Abyssinia Steel to become fully powered by renewable energy.
The project, supported by a $2 million investment from Empower New Energy, will see the construction of a 2.5-megawatt ground-mounted solar plant by Spenomatic Group, a leading renewable engineering company in East Africa. This plant is expected to generate about 4.8 GWh of clean electricity annually, saving approximately 2,500 metric tons of carbon emissions and reducing Abyssinia Steel’s electricity costs.
“We are thrilled to partner with Abyssinia Steel and Spenomatic to bring cost-saving and clean energy solutions to Kenya,” said Terje Osmundsen, CEO of Empower New Energy. “Together, we will contribute to the growth of a low-carbon economy in Kenya, fostering a greener future for the manufacturing industry.”
Jateen Patel, CEO of Abyssinia Steel, expressed pride in the partnership, stating: “This new 2.5 MWp solar plant represents another significant step towards a green and more prosperous future for the company. Our shared vision for sustainability and progress is the driving force behind this collaboration.”
Spenomatic Group, known for its expertise in renewable energy projects, will provide comprehensive engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) support for the solar plant. “We are excited to collaborate with Empower New Energy and Abyssinia Steel on this transformative solar project,” stated Berjeesh D Surty, MD of Spenomatic. “Together, we set a benchmark for clean energy adoption in the industrial sector.”
The signing ceremony, held at the Norwegian Embassy in Nairobi, was attended by the Norwegian Ambassador to Kenya, Gunnar Andreas Holm, and representatives from Norfund East Africa. William Nyaoke, Regional Director for East Africa at Norfund, lauded the partnership, saying: “Today marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between Norway and Kenya. It is through such partnerships that we can pave the way towards a greener and more prosperous future for all.”
This landmark project highlights Abyssinia Steel’s commitment to environmental responsibility and sets a positive example for the manufacturing industry in East Africa. The transition to renewable energy will not only benefit the environment but also enhance Abyssinia Steel’s competitiveness and pave the way for a more sustainable future for the company.
