EPRA eyes additional 280 mini-grids investors in new plan
ENERGY: Energy Petroleum and Regulatory Authority (Epra) has signalled its intention to fast-track the development of mini-grids and increase electrification in underserved areas, distant from the main grid.
It has developed a draft Energy (Mini-Grid) Regulations 2021 to be concretised through a public participation by the sector players.
If adopted, it will guide tariff approval, licensing requirements, technical guidelines, and performance requirements.
Daniel Kiptoo, Epra director general said regulations are expected to encourage the development of mini-grids in rural Kenya, therefore providing a cheaper and cleaner energy alternative to the commonly used energy supplies such as batteries and kerosene lambs.
“The regulations are expected to attract an additional 280 mini-grids investors by 2022, mainly powered by solar, hydro and wind with off grid communities, stimulating rural economic development,” he said.
The consultative meetings seek to strengthen weak areas of the regulations. The first meeting was held in Garissa yesterday, with subsequent ones slated for Lodwar, Mombasa, and eventually Nairobi.
Robust policy
“Deployment of mini-grids requires a robust policy and regulatory framework which encompass input from all key stakeholders.
We therefore look forward to receiving your views and feedback on the draft Regulations” said Kiptoo.
He said an impact study of the current mini-grids regulatory framework revealed that the framework does not directly address mini-grid development in the country.
“It is against this backdrop, and an increased interest in mini-grid development by key players, that Epra developed the draft mini-grid regulations” said Kiptoo.
