Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has assured Kenyans of their commitment to provide not only efficient and sustainable energy, but also making it accessible to all.
EPRA’s Director General (DG), Daniel Kiptoo said the country has benefited tremendously from the Electricity Regulatory Index (ERI) through the implementation of several key reforms which include enacting the Energy Act, 2019, which has enhanced EPRA’s regulatory governance, and developing various regulatory tools to improve electricity access.
Others are the implementation of an effective and simplified licensing process and the publication of regulatory decisions and electricity statistics, enhancing consumer protection frameworks to ensure equitable service delivery and fair electricity pricing for all citizens.
The DG who was speaking during a Validation Workshop for Electricity Regulatory Index (ERI) by EPRA and The African Development Bank (AfDB) at a Nairobi hotel disclosed EPRA has participated in the past five cycles, through which it has significantly improved its regulatory outcomes in ERI.
“Our geothermal energy production, centered in the Rift Valley, has positioned Kenya as a global leader in renewable energy,” he said.
Kiptoo added that the energy sector is also making significant investments in solar and wind energy, particularly in regions like Turkana, which is home to Africa’s largest wind farm.
He noted that the efforts are not only reducing the country’s carbon footprint but also creating jobs and driving economic growth, adding that Kenya’s energy sector is an example of what can be achieved through proactive regulation and innovation.
Kiptoo pointed out the regulatory frameworks translation into tangible benefits for all citizens, particularly in rural areas where energy access remains a pressing issue as one of the main challenges facing the sector.
He further commended AFDB for implementing the programme fostering collaboration between the Bank and EPRA.
“The role of regulators is becoming increasingly complex, requiring a delicate balance between innovation, reliability, affordability and sustainability” Kiptoo added.
The DG noted ERI plays a crucial role in identifying gaps and guiding policy adjustments, providing a structured and evidence-based framework that has encouraged regulators across Africa to refine their regulatory processes and achieve better outcomes.
In his remarks, the AfDB, Director, Wale Shonibare said ERI for Africa 2024 looks into strengthening Africa’s regulatory environment, framework, collective efforts and enabling environment for investment in Africa’s vast energy potential, which seeks to accelerate universal access to electricity.
According to Shonibare, the ERI which was launched in 2018, has diagnosed key regulatory gaps, provided recommendations, and influenced major policies reforms across the continent
“However, challenges still persist. We still have work to do particularly in terms of regulatory independence,” he remarked.
Shonibare underscored the ‘Mission 300 million’ an initiative launched by AfDB and World Bank in 2024, which aims to provide access to 300 million Africans who have no access to electricity, which translates to nearly half of the Africa continent population.
“This is a very ambitious agenda, but we are determined to pursue it and succeed,” he reiterated.
The event which saw delegations from all African countries participate will see the various delegates share their views on the programme and work mutually towards making the Mission 300 million by 2030.
By Emmanuel Mbuthia