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The Ministry of Energy has expanded its rural electrification initiatives through the launch of the Kenya Off-Grid Solar Access Project (KOSAP), which aims to provide clean electricity and modern cooking solutions to remote and underserved communities in North-Eastern and Coastal regions.
Launched in 2019 with funding from the World Bank, KOSAP targets fourteen counties; West Pokot, Isiolo, Marsabit, Samburu, Mandera, Wajir, Lamu, Tana River, Kilifi, Narok, Taita-Taveta, Turkana, Garissa, and Kwale.
The project seeks to deliver reliable renewable energy to around 430,000 households at an estimated cost of Sh16 billion (approximately $150 million), with the goal of achieving universal electricity access in Kenya by 2030.
Implemented in partnership with Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) and the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC), KOSAP focuses on solar hybrid power solutions and water projects in areas with minimal electrification ensuring equitable access to electricity, improve living conditions, and reduce energy costs for low-income families.
Vincent Ogaya, a research and policy lead at the Kenya Climate Innovation Center (KCIC), highlighted the challenges posed by limited electricity access, which restricts economic and social opportunities and affects provision of basic needs such as food, education, and health.
Off-grid energy solutions, like solar home systems and mini-grids, Ogaya emphasized, are crucial for supporting locals in underserved regions where traditional grid connections are not feasible.
“The 14 targeted counties account for 72% of Kenya’s total landmass and approximately 20% of its population, but they remain among the least electrified due to their diverse and challenging terrain which impedes the expansion of the traditional grid connection in the region,” he pointed out.
The Kenyan government is prioritizing solar energy development, including solar-powered mini-grids, as part of KOSAP, he added.
Among the key initiatives through the KOSAP is the installation of solar home systems, with an estimated 1.5 million households projected to be served by mini-grids providing sustainable energy solutions in the Kenya’s off-grid areas.
Additionally, KOSAP includes financial support for establishing around 120 micro and mini-grid sites, targeting approximately 28,000 customers in the initial phase to ensure affordable electricity access for remote communities.
The Kenya National Electrification Strategy, 2018, which aims to achieve universal electricity access by 2026, reflects the government’s commitment to extending the national grid to underserved areas while promoting off-grid renewable solutions.
According to the Climate Action Network’s, Renewable Energy Tracker Report 2024, Kenya is on track to deploy 100% renewable energy systems in the power sector by 2040 supported by its rich resources in solar, hydro, wind, biomass, and geothermal energy.
“Kenya’s relatively better performance is mainly due to its share of renewables in the power sector, putting it on track to reach 100% renewables by 2040 (the government aims to do so by 2030) and placing it among the top 20 countries in terms of deployment relative to economy size,” read the report in part.
However, the findings further notes that that many advanced economies are lagging behind in the renewable energy transition efforts. “Data indicates that the majority of Advanced Economies are not on track to deploy 100% renewables,” it stated.
By Robert Ojwang’
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