Kenya reaffirms push for scaled solar and energy storage at Intersolar Africa 2026

In a speech read on his behalf during the opening of the Intersolar Africa 2026 conference in Nairobi, Energy Principal Secretary Alex Kamau said the country must move faster to scale up grid-connected solar and invest in storage infrastructure to support the energy transition.

Mr. Kamau noted that although Kenya has abundant solar resources, utility-scale solar remains underdeveloped. He said the next phase of the country’s energy transition would focus on expanding grid-connected solar, integrating storage solutions, modernising infrastructure, and attracting private capital.

Kenya currently has about 210 megawatts (MW) of grid-connected solar power, representing 6.5 per cent of installed electricity capacity. An additional 200 MW comes from mini-grids, solar home systems, and commercial and industrial installations. More than 100,000 customers are connected through solar mini-grids, while over two million solar home systems are sold annually.

Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) Director General Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria said regulatory certainty and energy storage will be critical as renewable energy penetration increases.

“As electricity demand continues to rise, policies and regulations must facilitate investment, efficiency, and innovation,” Mr. Kiptoo said in a speech. He added that energy storage systems are essential for balancing supply and demand and improving grid reliability.

He said Kenya is developing regulatory frameworks to support battery energy storage systems, alongside structured procurement mechanisms and grid modernisation initiatives aimed at improving transparency and value for money.

Intersolar Africa 2026 brings together policymakers, investors, developers, and technology providers from across Africa and beyond. According to the organisers, the event includes a conference with more than 50 speakers and an exhibition featuring about 100 companies showcasing solar, storage, grid management, and e-mobility technologies.

The exhibition and conference run until 4 February 2026, with sessions focusing on policy, financing, commercial and industrial solar, mini-grids, energy storage, and emerging business models for Africa’s energy transition.