Kipeto Energy Named 2024 UN Person of the Year
Kipeto Energy, Kenya’s second-largest wind farm located in Kajiado County, has been awarded the 2024 United Nations (UN) Person of the Year Award for its contributions to climate action and sustainable development, Xinhua reported yesterday.
Established by three Kenyans with international investment support, Kipeto Energy generates 100 megawatts of clean, onshore wind energy, powering approximately 250,000 households daily.
Since connecting to the national grid in 2021, the wind farm has offset 175,741 tons of carbon dioxide annually. Stephen Jackson, the UN resident coordinator in Kenya, praised Kipeto’s commitment to community engagement and sustainable practices, highlighting its investments in local amenities such as schools, hospitals, and clean water supplies.
The wind farm has created over 900 jobs during construction, with 400 positions for local residents. Currently, 70 employees benefit from ongoing skill development. Additionally, Kipeto Energy has built and transferred 84 homes to local communities living near the turbines, reinforcing its dedication to social responsibility and environmental stewardship.