Electricity in Kenya in 2023/2024

Kenya's electricity consumption for the period from October 2023 to September 2024 is an interesting mix, reflecting its commitment to low-carbon energy sources. Over this time, the country generated approximately 11.5 TWh of electricity from low-carbon sources. Geothermal energy led the charge with 5.6 TWh, followed by hydropower at 3.55 TWh, and wind contributing 1.75 TWh. Additionally, Kenya's electricity landscape was supplemented by net imports of 1.36 TWh. Notably, more than half of Kenya's total electricity consumption was derived from clean, low-carbon sources. This reliance on low-carbon electricity is beneficial for environmental sustainability but may not yet match global expectations. The global average electricity consumption is 3638 watts per person while Kenya's is considerably lower. The lower level of electricity generation can have implications for economic development and the quality of life, as it potentially limits industrial growth, access to modern amenities, and technological advancements.

Suggestions

To advance its low-carbon electricity generation, Kenya can benefit from expanding its wind energy capacity, which has already demonstrated significant contributions. Additionally, Kenya could learn from Brazil, which generates a hefty 102 TWh of wind power. Both countries have similar geographic features that are conducive to wind energy deployment. Furthermore, solar energy, another abundant resource in sunny Kenya, offers substantial growth potential, as evidenced by countries like India and Australia, which generate 128 TWh and 50 TWh of solar electricity, respectively. Exploring and adopting successful strategies from these nations will be pivotal for Kenya. In addition to boosting wind and solar production, Kenya should also consider the incorporation of nuclear power, as seen in nations such as South Korea and France, which have relied heavily on it to achieve substantial low-carbon generation, producing 178 TWh and 360 TWh, respectively. Making strides in these areas can provide Kenya with a more robust and sustainable electricity supply, mitigating the negative impacts of fossil fuels such as climate change and air pollution.

History

Reflecting on the history of low-carbon electricity in Kenya illustrates the country's commitment to enhancing sustainable energy sources. During the late 1990s and early 2000s, the country saw fluctuations in hydropower generation, with declines in 1999 and 2000 and subsequent increases in the early 2000s. Another decline occurred in 2008 and 2009 before hydropower saw a brief increase in 2010. The 2010s marked a period of considerable growth for geothermal energy, with a significant leap in 2014 and subsequent growth in 2015. Wind energy has also been on the rise, with notable increments in 2019 and 2021. The resilience and adaptability of Kenya's low-carbon electricity generation have set the nation on a promising trajectory towards greater sustainability and energy security, and the continued expansion of geothermal, wind, and potentially solar and nuclear, will be foundational pillars of Kenya's clean energy future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources