EPRA invites you to take a look at its energy regulations for 2021 |

The Energy and Regulatory Petroleum Authority (EPRA) developed the Energy Regulation 2021 and is now inviting industry stakeholders to the proposed regulations.

The process will help stimulate investment in mini-grids in the country to increase electrification in underserved areas away from the main grid.

The authority announced that it would hold nationwide awareness-raising and counseling meetings before the next validation phase.

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According to EPRA, the regulations support national efforts to achieve universal access to electricity by 2022, as envisaged in Kenya‘s national electrification strategy introduced in 2018.

The draft ordinance was developed within the framework of the provisions of the Energy Act 2019 and is intended to harmonize the approval requirements for mini-grids by the national government, the district governments and the responsible supervisory authorities; Provide permits for minigrid tariffs; Providing a clear and competitive process for the approval of mini-networks and connection to the main network.

EPRA Director General Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria said: “An impact study of the current regulatory framework for minigrids has shown that the framework does not directly address minigrid development in the country. Against this background and an increased interest in the minigrid development by key actors, EPRA developed the draft of the minigrid regulation. “

Kiptoo also pointed out that the weaknesses of the regulation need to be strengthened through consultation and consent of the stakeholders in the sector.

“The use of minigrids requires a robust political and regulatory framework that includes input from all major stakeholders. We therefore look forward to opinions and feedback on the draft regulations, ”he added.

The regulations are expected to encourage the development of mini-grids in rural Kenya, providing a cheaper and cleaner energy alternative to commonly used energy sources such as batteries and kerosene lambs.

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With an additional 280 minigrids projected by 2022, powered primarily by solar, hydro and wind power, underserved communities will benefit from electricity below Kenya’s carbon dioxide emission factor (CEF) of 0.33 kg per kWh.

In addition, minigrids offer more opportunities for businesses that rely on electricity and stimulate rural economic development.

The first forum was held in the city of Garissa and then in Lodwar, Mombasa and later in Nairobi.