Nairobi: The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has announced the implementation framework for the Energy (Integrated National Energy Plan) Regulations, 2025, urging county governments to take a pivotal role in energy planning and execution across Kenya. This new regulation framework, released by the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, mandates that counties develop and execute energy plans that align with the Integrated National Energy Plan (INEP).
According to Kenya News Agency, the regulations are designed to decentralize energy planning, enhance inclusivity, and expedite the provision of reliable and affordable energy throughout the nation. During the presentation of the Energy Statistics Report for the 2024/2025 financial year, the Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum, Opiyo Wandayi, described the regulations as transformative for Kenya's energy sector.
Wandayi emphasized the importance of energy as a cornerstone for economic development, particularly highlighting its role in the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). "Counties are no longer bystanders. These regulations give them the mandate to map their energy needs, identify resources, and design projects that directly uplift their communities while aligning with national priorities," he remarked.
The Cabinet Secretary further pointed out that energy is crucial for development in sectors such as education, health, agriculture, housing, and manufacturing, with grassroots ownership being key to achieving universal access. He cited examples of how electricity can transform local communities, such as enabling digital learning in schools or providing reliable power for healthcare facilities and local industries.
Wandayi assured that the national government would support counties through training, technical assistance, and resource mobilization. He encouraged county leaders to view the regulations as opportunities for investment and innovation, particularly in renewable energy and energy efficiency.
Principal Secretary for Energy, Alex Wachira, highlighted the importance of accurate data for effective planning. He noted that the Energy Statistics Report would inform decision-making at both the national and county levels. "Counties are now co-authors of Kenya's energy future," Wachira stated, urging counties to assess local energy demands and renewable potentials while aligning their plans with the national strategy.
EPRA Chairman Eden Haji Ali praised the regulations as a key step toward inclusive energy governance that would attract investments in renewable and off-grid solutions. He emphasized that empowering counties would promote inclusivity and boost investor confidence.
EPRA Director General Daniel Kiptoo presented key findings from the Energy Statistics Report, noting Kenya's installed electricity capacity of 3,840.8 megawatts, with nearly 90 percent from renewable sources. He reported on the rising peak demand and highlighted the need for expanded capacity and improved infrastructure to meet growing energy needs.
Kiptoo also discussed the increase in petroleum imports and local consumption, assuring continued transparency in pump price regulation. Looking forward, EPRA aims to advance electric mobility, expand geothermal capacity, and engage in global carbon markets through International Renewable Energy Certificates (I-RECs).
The launch marked a new era of collaboration among national and county governments, regulators, and industry stakeholders, with leaders affirming the regulations as foundational for inclusive growth, investment, and sustainable energy transition.