Stakeholders in the energy sector have been encouraged to embrace research and innovation, especially in emerging areas, to develop energy solutions that are affordable, accessible, and reliable for consumers. This was during the 2024 Research and Innovation Conference organized by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
By embracing research in areas like energy storage, e-mobility and local innovations for rural electrification, researchers, universities and innovators can develop solutions that directly address the needs of Kenyans.
Daniel Kiptoo, Director General at EPRA said: “As Kenya strives towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future, the research community should focus their efforts on emerging areas of the energy transition. This research has the potential to unlock innovative solutions that directly benefit Kenyan consumers by lowering costs, increasing access to clean energy, and creating a more secure and reliable power supply.’’
Kenya’s unique challenges provide fertile ground for groundbreaking research, with promising areas including energy storage solutions. Currently, the country is implementing a 100 MW Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) project under the Kenya Green and Resilient Expansion of Energy (GREEN) program. Birthed from research and innovation efforts, the project will optimize grid operation by storing excess energy and releasing it during peak hours. The BESS will also act as a buffer, mitigating the intermittency of renewable energy sources like solar and wind. This will help to stabilize the grid, reduce power outages, and ensure a more reliable energy supply for Kenyans.
This year’s conference themed, ‘The Energy Transition’ focuses on promoting sustainable energy access, decarbonization, and energy market developments. By showcasing cutting-edge research and innovative solutions, the conference aims to inspire actionable strategies for building a sustainable energy future.
