Kenya is accelerating its decarbonization efforts by adopting cutting-edge energy efficiency and saving technologies.
The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) is spearheading initiatives to promote clean energy cooking, energy efficiency, electric mobility, and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).
Mr Daniel Kiptoo, Chair of the Global Energy Regulatory Energy Transition Accelerator (RETA), at the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) meeting in Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil, disclosed that Kenya plans to install its first 100 MW BESS this year, with an ambitious target of reaching 350 MW by 2026.
This aligns with the World Bank-funded GREEN program and demonstrates Kenya’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions.
Rehabilitating existing infrastructure
The government is also investing in the rehabilitation of older power plants, such as Olkaria 1, to increase their capacity and reduce carbon emissions.
“With every lapse of a thermal plant, the energy deficit is being met with the coming on board of new and green energy projects like the planned rehabilitation of Kenya’s oldest geothermal power plant, Olkaria 1. The power plant output will be increased from 45 MW to 63MW,” he said in a panel discussion themed, “Regulators in the driving seat – How to align all stakeholders in the race to net zero?”.
Incentivizing electric mobility
To promote electric vehicles, Kenya has introduced tax incentives for various vehicle classes, focusing on public service vehicles and two-wheelers. This move aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to a cleaner transportation sector.
Renewable energy growth
Kenya’s renewable energy sector has witnessed significant expansion, with installed capacity reaching 2,859.4 MW as of June 2024. This represents a substantial contribution to the country’s overall energy mix.
Global leadership
Kenya’s active participation in the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) and Global Energy Regulatory Energy Transition Accelerator (RETA) highlights its commitment to international collaboration on decarbonization.
