Mabati Rolling Mills launches Sh2.92mwh rooftop solar system, as plans to address climate change take shape.

By Anthony Zoka

Mabati Rolling Mills has embarked on measures that aim at reducing 200 tons of carbon dioxide following the launch of a solar power project at its Mariakani plant in Kilifi county.

Speaking at Mariakani, the company CEO, Albert Sigei, revealed that the project which was done through partnership of GridX Africa, as the financier and Orb Energy, a specialist in end-to-end renewable energy solutions, marks a significant step in the company’s transition to renewable energy.

“The integration of Solar energy into our MRM’s largest production plant in Mariakani, is a milestone in addressing the challenges of climate change, lowering its carbon footprint, and complementing the use of renewable energy.” Revealed Sigei.

According to the CEO, plans are on to ensure generation of 4,200 Mwh of clean energy every year hence saving electricity costs, adding that,

“This project demonstrates MRM’s commitment to environmental responsibility, aligning operations with Kenya’s clean, reliable, and sustainable energy targets and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs as well as make a significant contribution to Kenya’s climate action efforts and setting a precedent for responsible manufacturing across Africa”

Similar sentiments were shared by Grid X Africa CEO, Ryan Dunn. Who called on manufacturing companies across Kenya and beyond to adopt a similar financing model in setting renewable energy for commercial and industrial purposes.

“Mabati Rolling Mills will be saving close to 300,000 Us Dollars annually following this project. Our goal is to de-risk the adoption of renewable energy for businesses across Africa through the provision of modified financing solutions. This project is a perfect example of how strategic investment can unlock significant environmental and economic benefits, paving the way for a more sustainable manufacturing sector.” Noted Dunn.

Orb Energy Co-founder Damian Miller, noted that they were pleased to have brought their technical expertise in designing, supplying, and installing MRM’s first rooftop Solar system, totaling 2.92 MWp.

“This makes it one of the largest combined rooftop Solar PV systems in Kenya. This is a testament to the possibilities of harnessing solar energy, which is abundant in this region. We look forward to working with MRM and other manufacturing companies to install rooftop and ground-mounted solar solutions.” Said Miller

According to him, MRM will reduce its electricity cost by about 60 percent following the commissioning of the rooftop solar system.