This archive report was first published on 13 January 2022.
Kenya's power sector is facing a critical juncture following a series of blackouts that have left many without electricity for three days. The blackout series, which began on Monday night, was occasioned by the collapse of the Kiambere-Embakasi high voltage transmission power line, according to Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC).
Energy Cabinet Secretary Monica Juma has underscored the urgency of implementing reforms for a stable and reliable electricity supply, as evident in a recent tweet:
1/ The power outages in the last two days underscore the imperative and urgency of implementing the proposed reforms in our power sector to ensure stable and reliable power supply. — Amb. Dr. Monica Juma (@_MonicaJuma) January 13, 2022
She called for support from all energy stakeholders, including Kenyans, institutions, employees in the energy sector, and partners, to rally behind and support these reforms, as stated in another tweet:
3/ I call upon all Kenyans, institutions, employees in the energy sector and our partners to rally behind and support these reforms. — Amb. Dr. Monica Juma (@_MonicaJuma) January 13, 2022
The government has already taken steps to augment and fast-track reforms in the energy sector, including the appointment of a task force that handed its report in September 2021 with recommendations to review Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) signed with Kenya Power to lower power costs.
As part of the ongoing reforms, the government has effected a 15 percent reduction in power tariffs, which is part of a 30 percent reduction promise. The reduction will cover the period between January and December 2022, reflecting bills covering the December 2021 period. The Ministry of Energy confirmed the reduction in a statement, saying it will boost livelihoods and economic growth by reducing the cost of living.
