Kenya’s energy minister has announced the construction of 136 solar mini-grids in remote areas underserved by the national power grid. This initiative is part of a $150 million program funded by the World Bank. The grids use solar panels, batteries and backup generators to provide electricity independently of the main national grids.
The success of off-grid solar energy in Africa
Off-grid solar power is gaining popularity in Africa for homes that were not connected to traditional power grids. According to the World Bank, there are more than 3,000 solar mini-grids installed in sub-Saharan Africa, up from 500 in 2010. Another 9,000 are planned, including those to be built in Kenya.
Huge potential for solar energy
Solar power has the potential to connect 380 million people in sub-Saharan Africa to electricity by 2030, thanks to the region’s abundance of sunlight, according to the World Bank. Although Kenya generates much of its electricity from renewable sources such as hydro and geothermal, it also operates dozens of diesel generation units after years of drought. The government has secured funding from development partners to shift diesel-powered units to cheaper, sustainable sources.
A need for solar mini-grids in unconnected areas
Kenya’s energy minister, Davis Chirchir, pointed out that some parts of the country still do not have access to the national power grid. Solar mini-grids will therefore provide a solution to these remote and underserved areas. In addition, off-grid solar power is being driven by start-ups in Africa in recent years, which can foster entrepreneurship and economic growth in these regions.
