In any construction project, electrical installations is one of the most important undertakings as the project nears completion. Because of the potential for catastrophic consequences if undertaken haphazardly, this phase of a construction project is as critical as other vital services such as structural engineering. Any compromise can render a whole structure dangerous to use and result in costly repairs, potential law suits and generally heavy losses for the developer. Both the electrical engineer and the appointed electrical contractor must work together to ensure the building’s electrical systems are not only functioning as envisaged but are also safe for the users.
It is for this reason that developers are cautioned to engage registered and experienced electrical contractors only. On many occasions, clients are tempted to use “cheaper” alternatives especially for smaller projects. And when things go wrong later, they have nowhere to run to as their fly-by-night “contractor” who has learnt basic electrical work as an apprentice but lacks professional training, is nowhere to be found.
In Kenya, there are many experienced and reliable electrical contractors duly licensed by the regulator, the Energy & Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA). Among these is Regional Electrical and Power Services Limited, a company established in 2003 by Mr Mohammed Anjarwalla, a holder of Higher National Diploma in Electrical Engineering and an experienced professional in the electrical services profession.
For nearly two decades, Regional Power and Electrical Services Ltd has worked on numerous projects in the construction industry, offering a variety of services. These services include:
- Electrical installation works for domestic and industrial premises
- Electrical installation works for commercial buildings and residential estates
- Electrical installation works for machinery
- Fire alarm installations
- CCTV systems
The company has footprints in all major towns in Kenya and has also undertaken projects in South Sudan and Tanzania. In Kenya, among the major projects the contractor has worked on are:
- Nova Apartments on Muthangari Drive, Nairobi
- Westlands Business Park
- Crawford Business Centre
- Kivulini Apartments and Townhouses in Thika
- Waterfront Apartments in Nyali, Mombasa.
According to Mr Anjarwalla, Nova Apartments, completed in 2019, is one of his favourite projects. Designed by renowned Kenyan architectural firm Beglin Woods, the development consists of 17 levels of luxury residential apartments and triplex penthouses.
“I am proud to be associated with Nova Apartments as one of the most beautifully designed projects”, he says.
Industry
Mr Anjarwalla reckons that the biggest challenge facing electrical contractors in Kenya today is the quacks menace. “They provide cheap services to main contractors, thereby denying work to registered electrical contracting companies who have fully complied with regulations and have paid the requisite fees to various government entities.”
On the accelerated uptake of solar power in Kenya, the contractor says the capital expense for solar energy is high though “people will still invest as the returns are worth the investment”. He also feels the national power utility company should strive to provide more affordable power to the industry”.
Future
Mr Anjarwalla is optimistic that Regional Electrical & Power Services is destined for greater heights as the company seeks to provide the most professional and cost-effective electrical services to the construction industry.
Contacts: [email protected]
