This archive report was first published on 3 September 2019.
Access to energy is a critical factor in the development and growth of a nation. Energy is the backbone of all economies, enabling a better society and driving economic growth. However, a deficit in energy supply can have severe consequences, affecting economic growth and livelihoods.
According to the Sustainable Development Goals, climate action is a pressing issue that requires urgent attention. To rapidly reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the impact of climate change, there is a strong push towards the production of renewable energy. Renewable energy promotes economic diversification and value chain development, making it a development imperative.
Unfortunately, in Africa, one in three people lack access to electricity, often relying on kerosene or spending hours in darkness. The majority of those without electricity reside in rural areas, where access to the national grid is difficult and expensive. This is where cost-effective renewable energy becomes the most effective solution to rural electrification in Africa.
Renewable energy has the potential to transform agricultural value addition, create decent jobs, and improve the delivery of education and health care services. Despite the declining cost of producing renewable energy, resources remain largely untapped in Africa. KenGen, East Africa's top power generating company, is leading the way in the exploration of renewable energy sources, with a focus on geothermal energy production.
Earlier this year, KenGen won East Africa's Best Sustainable Power Producer prize in the 2018 Capital Finance International Awards for its deliberate focus on renewable energy. The award recognized the company's efforts to enhance renewable energy sources for the country and the continent in general. Managing Director Rebecca Miano said, 'The award recognized the company's efforts to enhance renewable energy sources for the country and the continent in general.'
KenGen's commitment to renewable energy has led to the development of the 165.4MW Olkaria V Geothermal Project, which was commissioned in July this year. This project has brought the total installed Geothermal energy capacity by the company to 699.4MW.
