Water infrastructure adopts solar to boost water supply
Baricho Water Works in Kilifi County is embracing renewable energy through a solarisation initiative aimed at supporting water pumping operations and reducing reliance on conventional electricity.
The initiative highlights the growing connection between energy and water supply, with water infrastructure requiring a reliable and sustainable source of power to pump, treat and distribute water to communities.
While residents often turn on their taps without considering the systems behind the flow of water, delivering a consistent supply requires a network of infrastructure, equipment, energy and skilled personnel working together.
At Baricho Water Works, the introduction of solar power is expected to provide an alternative energy source for pumping operations while contributing to efforts to make water services more sustainable. The move forms part of wider efforts to explore renewable energy solutions within the water sector and strengthen the resilience of critical water infrastructure.
Water pumping and treatment facilities consume significant amounts of energy, making electricity an important component of water service delivery. Rising energy costs and the need for more sustainable operations have increased interest in renewable energy solutions such as solar power.
The solarisation of Baricho Water Works therefore demonstrates how investment in clean energy can support essential public services while helping water utilities manage operational challenges.
The initiative also underscores the importance of integrating energy planning into water infrastructure development. Reliable water services depend not only on adequate water sources but also on the ability of treatment and pumping facilities to operate continuously and efficiently.
For communities served by water infrastructure in Kilifi and surrounding areas, strengthening the energy systems that support water production and distribution can contribute to more dependable services.
The development comes amid continued efforts by water sector institutions and development partners to improve water security and expand access to reliable water services across Kenya.
The Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation, the World Bank Group and the Coast Water Works Development Agency are among the institutions involved in supporting initiatives aimed at strengthening water infrastructure and service delivery.
The Baricho project demonstrates that water security extends beyond protecting and developing water sources. It also requires investment in the infrastructure and energy systems that enable water to reach households, businesses and institutions.
As Kenya continues to pursue climate-resilient and sustainable development, the use of renewable energy in water facilities could play an increasingly important role in supporting efficient operations and improving long-term water access.
The solarisation at Baricho Water Works is thus a reminder that every reliable supply of water is backed by a complex system—and that keeping water flowing requires energy as much as it requires water itself.
