BY JOE AURA
The Power Elec Kenya 2024 event, held from November 13th to 15th at the Sarit Expo Centre in Nairobi, showcased Kenya’s leadership and commitment to advancing renewable energy.
The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including policymakers, industry experts, and students, to discuss the future of sustainable energy in the region. The focus was on identifying the key challenges and exploring innovative solutions to ensure the growth of the renewable energy sector in Kenya.
One of the most significant challenges highlighted at the event was securing adequate financial support for renewable energy projects. Eng. Benson Mlambo Mwakina, the Director of Renewable Energy at the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, emphasized that geothermal and hydropower developments require substantial investments. Despite the existence of public-private partnerships, he stressed the urgent need for innovative financing models to ensure continued progress in the sector.
In addition to financial constraints, technological gaps and power distribution issues were discussed extensively. Fiona Magomere, a Power Systems Control Engineer at Kenya Power & Lighting Company PLC, pointed out that Kenya’s national grid infrastructure is aging and needs modernization. She noted that integrating renewable energy sources into the grid efficiently requires updated infrastructure, better forecasting tools, and advanced grid management technologies to minimize disruptions and improve power distribution across the country.
Another barrier to renewable energy expansion discussed at the event was the policy and regulatory environment. Eng. Mwakina, along with other speakers, highlighted the complex approval processes, restrictive power purchase agreements (PPAs), and inconsistent enforcement of policies that slow down project implementation. To overcome these obstacles, streamlining regulatory frameworks and simplifying the approval process were proposed as critical steps to boost investor confidence and accelerate project execution.
In terms of solutions, a recurring theme throughout the event was the importance of partnerships and collaboration. Eng. Mwakina underscored the value of working with international stakeholders, such as India, which has one of the largest solar markets globally. Such partnerships provide opportunities for knowledge exchange, technological advancements, and financial support, all of which are essential for scaling up renewable energy projects in Kenya.
Policy reforms were also proposed as a key solution. Several speakers recommended introducing tax incentives and creating policies that simplify licensing processes to encourage both local and international investment in the renewable energy sector. These changes are seen as vital to creating an attractive environment for investors and ensuring the sustainable growth of the industry.
Education and training were also emphasized as vital solutions to the challenges facing renewable energy development. Representatives from the Clean Energy Association (CEA) highlighted the role of specialized energy labs in providing students with hands-on experience, preparing them for careers in the renewable energy sector. The Powerelec Kenya event itself served as an educational hub, offering students and young professionals the chance to interact with industry leaders, attend seminars, and learn about emerging technologies and best practices.
Universities in Kenya are playing an increasingly important role in driving renewable energy innovation through education and research. During the event, it was noted that collaborations between universities and industry players are helping to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Specialized labs established by organizations like the CEA offer students the opportunity to engage in real-world projects, equipping them with the skills needed to contribute to Kenya’s renewable energy agenda.
Power Elec Kenya 2024 provided a unique platform for students to connect with experts, gain insights into industry challenges, and explore the latest technological trends. Such experiences are essential in building a skilled workforce capable of pushing Kenya towards a greener and more sustainable energy future. The event served as a reminder that addressing the challenges facing renewable energy requires not only innovation and investment but also the active participation of academia and the next generation of energy professionals.