Kenya’s electricity imports have nearly doubled to 751.95 gigawatt-hours (GWh) in response to growing demand and a decline in geothermal power generation, according to data from the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA). The surge in imports accounted for 10.41% of total electricity consumption, a significant increase from 6.16% in the previous financial year.
EPRA Director General Kiptoo Bargoria attributed the rise primarily to the full commercial operation of electricity imports from Ethiopia. Additionally, on December 13, 2024, Kenya began energy exchanges with Tanzania, marking a critical step toward strengthening regional interconnectivity within the East African Community (EAC).
To further facilitate electricity imports from Tanzania, EPRA expects the Isinya-Arusha-Singida 400kV transmission line, which was commissioned in December 2023, to enhance power exchange once it becomes fully operational.
While Kenya continues to rely on renewable energy sources, geothermal power generation declined due to the shutdown of the 45MW Olkaria I power plant for rehabilitation. This shortfall in geothermal capacity increased the need for regional electricity imports, particularly from Ethiopia.
According to the Half-Year Biannual Energy and Petroleum Statistics Report for FY2024/2025, electricity consumption surged as economic activities expanded. During the period under review, national electricity consumption reached 7,222.37 GWh, reflecting increased energy demand across various sectors. Peak demand remained consistently high, reaching 2,288.35 megawatts (MW) on October 29, 2024.
As of December 2024, Kenya’s total installed power capacity stood at 3,811.6 MW. Geothermal power contributed 26.13%, hydroelectric power accounted for 24.16%, and thermal power made up 17.36% of the mix. Captive power capacity, which includes biomass, solar, and hydro sources, stood at 574.6 MW, representing 15.04% of the country’s total installed capacity.
The sharp increase in electricity imports underscores Kenya’s evolving energy landscape as it balances local generation challenges with regional collaboration. As demand continues to grow, further investments in renewable energy infrastructure and cross-border power trade agreements are expected to play a crucial role in ensuring energy security and sustainability.
