Kenya has taken a further step forward in its renewable energy quest with a new NAMA (Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Action) that focuses on providing energy access to people living in rural Kenya, while at the same time creating and building momentum for a market for clean energy technologies.

The NAMA foresees the manufacture and distribution of 1 million units of solar PV-based lanterns and improved cookstoves respectively in Kenya using an innovative market-based approach.

Twenty-eight energy productivity zones are to be established across the country that will provide infrastructure and support services for the private sector to invest in manufacturing and distributing clean energy technologies on a for-profit basis. These zones will be self-sufficient in their electricity requirements thanks to a solar power plant with a total capacity of 500 Kilowatts.

According to a report released by Bloomberg New Energy Finance in November 2015, Kenya was ranked sixth in a global list of key emerging markets for clean energy.

In addition to reducing emissions by using clean energy, the comprehensive awareness and training provided through the NAMA will bring about sustained sector transformation within Kenya. It will also boost sustainable development by creating new enterprises and jobs.

Funding for the NAMA will come from a combination of international grants and loans as well as contributions by the country, and it will be implemented by the Rural Electrification Authority (REA). The REA is mandated to be changed into the National Electricity and Renewable Energy Authority (NERA) and be made responsible for all renewable energy activities in Kenya excluding geothermal and large hydro. NERA will be the “one stop shop” for information and guidance to investors on renewable energy projects.

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