This Kenyan factory is the CHINT Group’s 10th overseas production site and the second CHINT Meters facility in Africa. It specializes in producing cutting-edge smart meters, including the CHD130 Single Phase DIN-Rail Meter, CHS120 Single Phase Smart Meter, and CHS320 Three Phase Smart Meter. These products are equipped with advanced features such as anti-tamper mechanisms, versatile installation options, and secure communication capabilities, serving both the residential and commercial customers.
With an annual production capacity of up to 400,000 meters and an efficient quick assembly line, the factory is set to play a crucial role in the regional energy sector. This facility has initially employed 40 staff members, 90% of whom are locally hired, and aims to achieve a 30%-40% localization rate for its products, with plans to further increase this rate as the facility expands.
“Today marks a significant step forward in CHINT’s global strategy and our commitment to East Africa. Our new factory in Kenya is not just a manufacturing site; it is a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and economic growth for the region,” stated Lily Zhang, President of CHINT Global. “We are confident that this facility will become a shining star among our global factories, illuminating the path towards a more sustainable and electrified future for East Africa.”
The grand opening was attended by several esteemed guests, including Joy Brenda Masinde, Chairman of Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC); Mr. Gu Zhangping, CEO of CHINT Meter Company; Mr. Thomas Cheng, Vice President of CHINT Global and General Manager for East & South Africa; Ms. Amy Fan, General Manager for East and South Africa, CHINT Global; Ms. Esther Ngari, Managing Director of the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS); and the Chief Guest, Dr. Juma Mukhwana, Principal Secretary for the State Department of Industry.
During the ceremony, Ms. Esther Ngari of KEBS officially presented the factory’s certification to Ms. Amy Fan, highlighting the facility’s adherence to the highest standards of quality and safety.
In his remarks at the event, Dr. Juma Mukhwana, the Chief Guest, commended CHINT for its investment in Kenya. “The Kenyan government has introduced various incentives to attract investors, including EPZ and SEZA. CHINT’s presence here will significantly address the challenges we’ve faced in industrialization, especially in terms of supplying large amounts of power while lacking necessary factories. CHINT’s investment is a welcome addition that will support our industrialization agenda.”
Joy Brenda Masinde, Chairman of KPLC, emphasized the importance of CHINT’s smart meters to Kenya’s energy industry. “The introduction of CHINT’s advanced metering solutions is a game-changer for KPLC. These meters will enable us to provide our customers with accurate billing, reduce losses, and improve the overall efficiency of our energy distribution. This is not just an investment in technology; it’s an investment in Kenya’s future.”
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CHINT’s new factory is more than just a manufacturing plant; it represents a significant shift in Kenya’s energy landscape. The smart meters produced here will enable consumers to monitor their energy usage in real time, making informed decisions that can lead to cost savings. Additionally, by integrating with the power grid, these meters will strengthen the energy infrastructure, reducing the risk of blackouts and ensuring a consistent supply of electricity to homes and businesses.
The factory, spanning 4,000 square meters, will primarily serve the Kenyan market but is also positioned to supply products to the broader East African Community, including Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, Congo (DRC), and Somalia. This expansion is part of CHINT’s broader vision of becoming a leading power solutions provider in the region, with goals to secure a top-three market position within three years and the top spot within five years.