The Ministry of Energy is set to implement a new strategy aimed at curbing the rampant problem of illegal electricity connections in high-density urban settlements.

Speaking during a radio interview with Spice FM on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi revealed that Kenya Power will introduce a bulk metering system as part of broader efforts to enhance safety, reduce losses, and streamline power distribution in informal neighborhoods.

The bulk metering model will involve appointing a single representative or entity within an estate or densely populated neighborhood to serve as the official contact with Kenya Power.

This individual will receive the consolidated electricity bill and be tasked with redistributing power to individual households, as well as collecting payments from tenants. The move targets areas where security concerns and poor access have made it difficult for Kenya Power personnel to install and monitor individual meters.

“In these densely populated neighborhoods, illegal connections are very rampant,” said Wandayi. “We’re coming up with a solution bulk metering where it will be difficult for Kenya Power to access every household. This strategy will allow us to manage power distribution more safely and efficiently.”

The new approach is expected to improve billing accuracy, curb electricity theft, and reduce the risks posed by unauthorized connections. Wandayi emphasized that many fire outbreaks in urban informal settlements are directly linked to illegal and unsafe power lines.

By consolidating power supply and enforcing standardized distribution, the government hopes to address these safety concerns head-on.

Additionally, the initiative aims to enhance the reliability of power supply in affected areas by minimizing disconnections and illegal tampering. “It will help ensure uninterrupted electricity in those areas by reducing disconnections, but more importantly, it will improve safety.

Illegal connections are extremely unsafe we’ve had too many fire incidents caused by such setups,” Wandayi added.

The rollout of bulk metering will be piloted in select urban areas before being expanded nationwide. The Ministry is working closely with Kenya Power and local communities to ensure successful implementation and cooperation from residents.