In 2024, Kenya's electricity consumption totaled approximately 11.71 TWh, predominantly driven by low-carbon sources. Geothermal energy comprised nearly half of this at 5.55 TWh, while hydropower and wind contributed about a third together, with 3.62 TWh and 1.81 TWh, respectively. Net imports added a modest 1.48 TWh. Kenya's total electricity consumption per person is 249 kWh, substantially lower than the global average of 3649 kWh. Such low levels can limit economic growth, hinder technological advancement, and impede improvements in living standards. Increasing electricity generation, specifically from clean energy sources, is crucial to bridging this gap and promoting sustainable development in Kenya.
Data sources used on this page include Ember, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Kenya?
Examining recent trends, Kenya's electricity consumption per person increased from 242 kWh in 2023 to 249 kWh in 2024, marking an increase of 7 kWh. While this growth is positive, it's relatively modest. Low-carbon generation has nearly maintained prior records, with generation at 208 kWh/person compared to the historical peak of 209 kWh/person in 2020, representing a slight decrease of 1 kWh. This stagnation in low-carbon electricity is concerning, as more significant expansion is essential to transition from fossil fuels to cleaner alternatives and enhance overall energy security and economic development.
Suggestions
Kenya can bolster its low-carbon electricity by expanding its wind power capacity, a promising sector already contributing significantly. Learning from leading regions globally, Kenya could look at China's successful integration of both solar and wind, with massive generation capacities of over 1100 TWh each. Additionally, Kenya might draw inspiration from U.S. states like Texas, which has harnessed wind power to generate 127 TWh, or from India's strides in both solar and wind, producing 153 TWh and 102 TWh, respectively. To diversify its clean energy portfolio, Kenya should also explore nuclear energy, as demonstrated by countries like France and the United States, with their substantial nuclear output. Expanding solar and nuclear generation can build a resilient and sustainable energy mix, powering future growth and development.
History
Historically, Kenya's low-carbon electricity production has experienced fluctuating trends. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, hydropower underwent negative shifts but rebounded briefly in the early 2000s. Noteworthy increases in geothermal energy occurred in the mid-2010s, marking significant advancements in Kenya’s green energy landscape. Wind power saw its initial growth in 2019, followed by further gains in 2021, reflecting focused efforts to diversify low-carbon sources. Despite these strides, recent declines or modest increases in hydro and geothermal highlight the necessity for continuous investment and strategic expansion in emerging technologies like solar and nuclear to meet future energy needs sustainably.
