In the sun-drenched village of Kitonyoni, Makueni County, solar energy is transforming daily life. Tailor William Ndolo runs his shop using power from a solar photovoltaic mini-grid installed atop a cargo container, keeping his business, the local dispensary, and even students’ evening studies uninterrupted during nationwide blackouts. The system, installed in 2012 with support from the University of Southampton and Kenya’s Ministry of Energy, highlights how small-scale solar can provide reliable electricity even when the national grid fails. Residents pay a modest Sh20 per kilowatt-hour, illustrating a practical, community-driven energy solution.
Kenya boasts immense solar potential, with Africa holding 60 percent of the world’s most promising solar sites. Yet, only six percent of Kenya’s electricity currently comes from solar, despite ambitious national targets aiming for 100 percent clean energy by 2030. Off-grid solar solutions, mass-produced panels from China, and pay-as-you-go systems are bridging gaps in remote regions, but the majority of the population, particularly in rural areas, remains without reliable electricity. A recent survey shows that nearly two-thirds of rural households are not connected to the main grid, while most urban homes supplement unreliable power with private solar systems. Residents like Alice Gathoni of Embu County now rely on solar as their primary source of electricity, relegating Kenya Power to a backup role.
Experts argue that scaling solar adoption is crucial for Kenya’s sustainable development. Off-grid solar not only improves livelihoods by powering homes and businesses but also supports climate-smart agriculture, healthcare, and education. Global initiatives like the Renewable Energy Integration Program are providing concessional funding to modernize Kenya’s energy system, while international climate forums, including COP28 and COP29, stress the need for equitable transitions to net-zero emissions. Despite the promise, Kenya faces challenges in fully harnessing solar potential, with infrastructure and investment limitations slowing progress. As communities like Kitonyoni demonstrate, small-scale solar projects can deliver immediate benefits and serve as models for a broader, climate-resilient energy future.