African News, Worldwide News

Kenyan Court Halts Coal Power Project At World Heritage Site Lamu

Kenyan Court Halts Coal Power Project At World Heritage Site Lamu
no comments
0
0

Lamu one of Kenya’s most historic tourist destinations looks likely to remain such following a ruling by Kenyan judges which has have halted plans to construct the country’s first ever coal-powered Electric plant.  There were plans for a Chinese backed 1,050 MW coal-fired station however campaign group DeCOALize took the  National Environment Management Authority (Nema) to court citing the lack of a proper environmental impact assessment and the Judges agreed.

Picturesque Coastal resort
Lamu Kenya
Image javarman/Shutterstock

Lamu a Unesco World Heritage Site and dates back to the 14th Century has extensive local fishery and agriculture industries and impact upon these when combined with what would have been a 700% increase in the countries carbon emissions swayed the decision. The judgment will have come as a blow to the Kenyan authorities who had argued that the coal-fired plant would help meet the country’s fast-growing demand for electricity. However, this seems strange given the opportunities for Solar generation in the region and the commitment from President Uhuru to move the country to 100% green energy by 2020. One can only assume that part of the estimated $2bn cost went in bribes and backhanders.

More Here

Skip to toolbar