Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has called on public and private institutions to embrace renewable energy, saying wider adoption of clean energy technologies will help lower electricity costs, improve energy reliability and accelerate Kenya’s transition to sustainable development.
Speaking during the commissioning of a solar-powered hybrid system at the Nairobi Remand and Allocation Maximum Security Prison, Wandayi said renewable energy remains one of the government’s key strategies for reducing the country’s dependence on conventional electricity while promoting economic growth.
“Renewable energy offers a reliable, affordable and environmentally friendly solution that will help lower electricity costs while supporting economic development,” Wandayi said.
Government steps up clean energy transition
The Energy CS said expanding investments in renewable energy will reduce the impact of power outages while ensuring institutions have access to a stable and affordable electricity supply.
He noted that Kenya has made significant progress in increasing the share of renewable energy in its electricity mix and encouraged more public institutions, businesses and households to adopt solar and other clean energy technologies.
According to Wandayi, reducing reliance on conventional power sources will not only lower operational costs but also strengthen the country’s energy security and support long-term environmental conservation.
He added that the government remains committed to expanding access to clean energy as part of its broader agenda to drive industrial growth and improve service delivery.
Solar project expected to improve prison operations
The solar-powered hybrid system commissioned at the Nairobi Remand and Allocation Maximum Security Prison was implemented with support from the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
Development partners said the project has already improved electricity reliability at the correctional facility, enabling smoother operations while enhancing the welfare of inmates and prison staff.
They noted that reliable electricity is essential for supporting rehabilitation programmes, improving security systems and ensuring uninterrupted delivery of essential services within correctional institutions.
The partners also said expanding renewable energy projects across correctional facilities would contribute to strengthening Kenya’s justice system while safeguarding the constitutional rights and dignity of inmates.
Officials call for more investment in renewable energy
Principal Secretary for Correctional Services Dr. Salome Beacco, who attended the commissioning ceremony, welcomed the project and said it demonstrates how sustainable energy solutions can improve public institutions.
She noted that reliable electricity will promote innovation, improve living conditions for inmates and enhance the efficiency of correctional services across the country.
Dr. Beacco also called for increased investment in renewable energy projects within government institutions to reduce operating costs and promote environmental sustainability.
The officials said similar initiatives could be replicated in other public facilities, including schools, hospitals and administrative offices, as Kenya continues pursuing cleaner and more affordable energy solutions.
Renewable energy central to Kenya’s development agenda
Kenya remains one of Africa’s leading producers of renewable energy, with geothermal, hydro, wind and solar power accounting for a significant share of the country’s electricity generation.
The government has continued to encourage investments in renewable energy as part of efforts to lower electricity costs, reduce carbon emissions and improve energy access for households and businesses.
Wandayi said partnerships between the government and development organisations will remain critical in expanding clean energy infrastructure across the country.
He added that increasing the adoption of renewable energy will not only reduce electricity bills but also support Kenya’s climate commitments, create jobs and strengthen the country’s long-term economic resilience.
