Kenya has earned global recognition for its progress in renewable energy development, with geothermal, wind and solar power forming a growing share of the country’s electricity mix. The transition has strengthened energy security while positioning the country as a regional leader in climate-responsive development.

However, researchers note that sustaining this progress requires stronger policies and deliberate strategies to ensure the country achieves a fully carbon-free energy future.

A study conducted by Dr. Francis Kangure, Prof. Izael Da Silva and Maria Namale under the auspices of Strathmore University’s Strathmore Energy Research Centre (SERC) examines the policy and institutional pathways necessary to accelerate Kenya’s transition to a low-carbon energy system.

The research highlights that Kenya’s renewable energy achievements provide a strong foundation for deeper decarbonisation but warns that existing policy frameworks must evolve to address emerging technological, economic and regulatory challenges.

“Kenya has made remarkable progress in renewable energy development, but the transition to a carbon-free energy future requires sustained policy commitment and coordinated investment across the energy sector,” the researchers observe in the study.

According to the study, Kenya’s energy transition is driven by a combination of national climate commitments, expanding electricity demand, and global pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Renewable energy sources already contribute significantly to electricity generation, placing the country ahead of many developing economies in the shift toward cleaner power.

However, the study notes that achieving a fully decarbonised energy system will require not only expanding renewable generation but also strengthening energy planning, grid infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks that guide investment and technology deployment.

“Transitioning to a carbon-free energy system involves more than increasing renewable generation. It requires supportive policies, investment in infrastructure, and effective coordination among energy sector actors,” the researchers note.

The study points out that energy transition strategies must address issues such as grid integration of variable renewable energy, financing mechanisms for new technologies, and institutional coordination among agencies responsible for energy planning and regulation.

The researchers further observe that policy frameworks should encourage innovation and investment in emerging clean technologies, while ensuring that the transition remains economically sustainable and socially inclusive.

“Policy frameworks should support innovation and provide clear regulatory signals that encourage investment in clean energy technologies,” the researchers state.

Kenya’s experience also offers important lessons for other countries seeking to balance energy expansion with climate commitments. The study emphasises that maintaining progress will depend on strengthening governance systems, improving data systems for energy planning, and ensuring that regulatory institutions have the capacity to guide the transition.

The Strathmore University Study notes that the country’s ambitious energy plans must be accompanied by policies that support long-term sustainability, including investments in modern energy infrastructure and stronger coordination among government, industry and research institutions.

“Achieving a carbon-free future will require a comprehensive approach that integrates policy reform, technological innovation and institutional collaboration,” the researchers conclude.

The study contributes to growing scholarship on energy transition in developing economies by examining how policy frameworks can support large-scale decarbonisation while maintaining energy security and economic growth. By analysing Kenya’s renewable energy trajectory and identifying the institutional and policy measures needed to sustain progress, the research provides a valuable evidence-based framework for policymakers and energy planners seeking to advance low-carbon development pathways.

Article written by Otuma Ongalo