Kenya’s Renewable Mini-Grids Now Power 500,000 Rural Households

Kenya’s renewable energy mini-grids—solar, hydro, and hybrid—now supply electricity to 500,000 rural households across 30 counties. The Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC) reports 120 operational mini-grids, with 80 more under construction. Communities in Turkana, West Pokot, and Lamu benefit from 24/7 power for lighting, phone charging, and small businesses. The Ksh15 billion program, funded by AfDB and UK Aid, uses pay-as-you-go models for affordability. Mini-grids have reduced kerosene use by 70% and created 2,000 local technician jobs. Kenya aims for 1,000 mini-grids by 2030 to achieve universal electricity access.