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Kenya has made significant strides in expanding its electricity access over the past decade, with the access rate increasing from 37 percent in 2013 to 79 percent in 2023. The International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that the country is on track to achieve full electricity access by 2030. This transformation is particularly evident in rural areas, where initiatives like the Last Mile Connectivity Project (LMCP) have successfully connected over nine million people to the national grid since 2015. An additional 280,000 households are expected to gain access by the end of this year.
The expansion of electricity access is not merely about infrastructure; it is fundamentally about enhancing quality of life. Providing electricity enables homes, businesses, schools, and clinics to operate more effectively, fostering economic and social development.
In addition to grid-based solutions, Kenya is a leader in off-grid solar energy, particularly in East Africa. The country accounted for nearly 75 percent of solar home system sales in the region during 2023. Approximately one in five households in Kenya now relies on solar-powered mini-grids or standalone systems, demonstrating the nation’s commitment to renewable energy and inclusive electrification.
Renewable energy constitutes nearly 90 percent of Kenya’s electricity supply, positioning the country among the global leaders in sustainable power generation. Key sources include geothermal, hydro, wind, and solar energy. Notable projects such as the Lake Turkana Wind Project, Africa’s largest wind farm, and the country’s geothermal developments contribute nearly one-third of the national energy supply.
Kenya is also addressing the issue of clean cooking. The proportion of the population with access to clean cooking options has increased from 10 percent in 2013 to over 30 percent today, with a target of achieving full access by 2028 as outlined in the Kenya National Cooking Transition Strategy.
This progress is underpinned by robust national policies. Kenya is currently revising its National Energy Policy for 2025–2034, incorporating insights from the IEA and other stakeholders. New regulations set to take effect in 2024 aim to attract private investment in the electricity transmission and distribution sectors, facilitating grid modernization and meeting rising demand.
Despite ongoing challenges such as power losses and regulatory coordination, the IEA remains optimistic about Kenya’s energy future. With a clear policy framework and a strong focus on renewable resources, the country is well-positioned to achieve its electricity access goals and provide a brighter, cleaner future for millions more citizens.
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