Empowering Kaeris: Sustainable Water Access Through Solar Energy

Location: Kaeris, Turkana County

Program: Kenya Energy Modernisation Program (KEMP)

Initiative: Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Project

Water is life, and in the arid landscapes of Turkana County, access to a clean, reliable water source is a catalyst for community transformation. As part of our ongoing commitment to sustainable development and community upliftment, we are proud to highlight the successful installation of a solarized borehole in Kaeris.

Powering More Than Just Homes

This vital water infrastructure project was born out of a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative linked to the construction of the Kaeris solar mini-grid, a milestone project under the Kenya Energy Modernisation Program (KEMP).

While the core mission of the KEMP mini-grid was to bring much-needed electricity to the residents of Kaeris, we recognized that true modernization must address the community’s most fundamental needs. By leveraging the same abundant solar resources used for electrification, this CSR project delivers a sustainable, long-term solution to water scarcity.

Project Features and Infrastructure

Designed for resilience and efficiency in harsh climatic conditions, the Kaeris borehole facility includes:

• Renewable Solar Pumping: A dedicated solar photovoltaic (PV) array powers the system entirely off-grid. It utilizes a high-efficiency Grundfos RSI solar inverter and modern switchgear to ensure safe, continuous, and low-maintenance operation.
• Elevated Storage: Water is pumped into high-capacity dual storage tanks mounted on a sturdy steel tower. This gravity-fed system guarantees that water pressure is maintained and supply is available to the community even after the sun goes down.
• Community Water Kiosk: A secure, multi-tap water fetching point has been constructed with concrete drainage channels. This provides residents with a safe, accessible, and clean environment to fetch their daily water.
• Secure Perimeter: The entire infrastructure is enclosed within a chain-link fence to protect the equipment and ensure the longevity of the water supply.

 

A Lasting Impact

The solarized borehole stands as a beacon of sustainable development in Turkana County. By eliminating the reliance on expensive diesel generators or manual hand pumps, the project provides zero-emission, zero-fuel-cost water pumping.

For the people of Kaeris, this means improved health and sanitation, better hydration for livestock, and countless hours saved—empowering the community to focus on education, local enterprise, and economic growth.

Lighting up homes and letting the water flow—bringing sustainable energy and life to Kaeris.