Kenya More Than Doubled Electricity Access Over A Decade

Published: Friday, May 9, 2025 at 7:30 am

Kenya's Electrification Success Story: A Bright Spot in a Challenging Global Energy Landscape

Kenya has made remarkable strides in expanding electricity access over the past decade, a feat highlighted in a recent report. The country more than doubled its electricity access rate, soaring from 37% in 2013 to 79% in 2023. This impressive growth, driven by a combination of government initiatives and the rise of off-grid solar solutions, has transformed the lives of many Kenyans, particularly in urban areas. The government's goal is to achieve 100% electricity access by 2030 and 100% renewable electricity generation by 2035.

The success story is fueled by Kenya's abundant renewable resources, with geothermal, hydro, wind, and solar power generating nearly 90% of its electricity. Off-grid solar, including solar fans and pay-as-you-go credit models, has played a crucial role in bringing electricity to those in need. The government's coordinated approach, including the Last Mile Connectivity Project, has prioritized connections for underserved communities and women-headed households.

However, challenges remain. While electricity access has improved, clean cooking fuels are still not widely available. Most Kenyans still rely on polluting fuels like wood, impacting women and girls disproportionately. High electricity prices and reliability issues, including losses within the grid, also pose significant hurdles. The government is working to address these issues by increasing biofuel sources, lowering LPG prices, and exploring specific electricity rates for eCooking. The country's ambitious plans for green industrialization depend on global supply chains and financial markets, which are currently facing headwinds.

BNN's Perspective: Kenya's progress is a testament to the power of strategic investment and embracing renewable energy. While the challenges are significant, the country's commitment to expanding access and transitioning to clean energy is commendable. However, the global economic climate and the need for substantial investment highlight the importance of international cooperation and affordable financing to ensure Kenya's continued success.

Keywords: Kenya electricity access, renewable energy, solar power, off-grid solar, clean cooking, energy access, electrification, Kenya energy policy, sustainable development goal, geothermal energy, wind energy, energy transition, electricity prices, Last Mile Connectivity Project, Africa energy, energy efficiency, Kenya government, energy investment, global trade, economic growth.

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