Kenya Power and Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC) have signed 20 power contracts, funded by the World Bank, to provide electricity access to approximately 1.2 million people.
The KSh10 billion project involves installing 113 solar-powered mini-grids across 12 counties and setting up standalone solar systems in 343 public schools, health facilities, and administrative offices across 13 counties.¹
The agreement was witnessed by President William Ruto, Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, and Petroleum Principal Secretary Alex Wachira.
This initiative aligns with Kenya’s goal of achieving universal access to electricity by 2030, with a focus on expanding rural access.
Speaking during the signing of the contract dubbed Kenya Off-Grid Solar Access Project (KOSAP) at Statehouse Nairobi, on Wednesday, February 19, Ruto said the over KSh 10 billion deal will extend electricity to communities that have remained on the fringes of development for far too long.
“Today we witness the signing of 14 contracts which will establish 113 mini-grids, bringing electricity to the counties of Turkana, Marsabit, Samburu, Isiolo, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Kwale, and Narok.
This marks a significant expansion of Kenya’s growing energy revolution,” said Ruto.
Ruto said six out of the 14 contracts will ensure that 343 public health facilities, schools, and administrative offices are connected to electricity through stand-alone solar systems at a cost of KSh 438 million.
The head of state revealed that a further 316 solar water pumps for boreholes, worth KSh1.6 billion, are in the final stages of procurement, ensuring that electricity not only lights homes but also powers essential services.
“This is more than just a contract signing; it is a reaffirmation of our unwavering commitment to inclusive development. It sends a clear message that no Kenyan, regardless of location or background, will be left behind in our nation’s progress,” he said.
According to the head of state, Kenya’s access to electricity increased from 29% in 2013 to 75% in 2025, becoming one of the leading nations in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The country connected 1.2 million customers to Kenya Power through the Last Mile Connectivity Programme, with another 460,000 set to benefit by 2026.
“Through REREC, we have connected 63,000 out of 93,000 identified public facilities, including 22,900 public primary schools.
1,071 public facility projects completed in the 2023/24 financial year and another 1,450 currently underway in the 2024/25 financial year.,” the president added.
Meanwhile, Kenya Power report indicated that electricity demand hit a record high of 2,316 megawatts (MW) in February 2025, up from 2,304 MW registered in January 2025.
The utility firm said electricity consumption has been gradually increasing over the past three years, with the growth rate gaining momentum in 2024.
KPLC revealed the major drivers of the demand growth were investments in stabilising the national grid and building important projects such as the Kimuka 220/66kV substation.
Source:https://energynewsafrica.com
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