Workshop III: Reaching Underserved Communities through Off- Grid Solar Solutions: The case of the Kenya Off-Grid Solar Access Project (KOSAP)

The Government of Kenya remains firmly committed to achieving universal access to electricity and clean cooking by 2030.  It is noteworthy that the national electricity access has grown significantly, from approximately 30% in 2014 to about 75%. This access comprises 65% grid connections, 0.84% mini grid, and 9.2% standalone PV systems.

To sustain this progress, multiple pathways have been identified under the National Energy Policy and the Kenya National Electrification Strategy (KNES). These include grid densification and intensification, grid expansion, and deployment of off-grid solutions through the development of mini-grids and stand-alone solar systems. Within this framework, the Kenya Off-Grid Solar Access (KOSAP) plays a critical role in extending modern energy services to underserved counties, where the costs of extending the national grid are economically unviable.

KOSAP specifically focuses on counties identified as marginalised by the Commission of Revenue Allocation (CRA), including Turkana, Marsabit, Samburu, Isiolo, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Kwale, Narok, West Pokot, and Taita Taveta. Collectively, these counties constitute 75% of the Kenyan landmass and account for about 20% of the national population. This underscores the need for innovative, decentralised energy solutions to accelerate equitable access.

The session will:

• Highlight key strategies adopted in providing off-grid solar solutions, including the development of mini-grids and the installation of solar power in public facilities

• Examine mechanisms of private sector participation, particularly through results-based financing

• Share lessons learnt and best practices in reaching underserved and hard-to-reach communities