Kenya to inject Sh2.5 billion into renewable energy push

The Ministry of Energy is prioritising clean cooking gas for low-income households as part of a broader Sh2.54 billion investment plan to improve energy access and promote sustainability.

The Ministry will use part of the funding to scale up the distribution of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), which remains underused in Kenya compared to similar economies.

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi highlighted that the government’s plan includes distributing more LPG cylinders, building on a pilot project that handed out 35,000 six-kilogram cylinders with burners and grills to low-income families.

"An estimated total financial requirement of Sh2,544,471.37 million is required," said Wandayi during the launch of the strategic plan, which covers 2023 to 2027.

The plan also calls for increasing electricity production and expanding power access, alongside exploring oil, gas, and other energy sources to meet growing demand.

The government aims to integrate global technologies and regional partnerships to promote renewable energy, e-mobility, and environmental conservation.

The ministry intends to complete early projects, including an 824-kilometer crude oil pipeline from Lokichar to Lamu.

This new strategic plan builds on efforts that produced over 415,000 barrels of crude oil for export under the Early Oil Pilot Scheme from 2022 to 2025.

By focusing on clean cooking gas, the government hopes to reduce reliance on harmful fuels and improve the quality of life for vulnerable households, while supporting Kenya’s broader clean energy ambitions.