Renewable energy conference kicks off in Nairobi

A two-day clean energy conference aimed at promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency in the country, has kicked off today in Nairobi.

The conference, jointly hosted by Kenya’s manufacturer’s lobby group, Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) in partnership with the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum is themed Catalysing Sustainable Renewable and Energy Efficiency in Kenya, highlights the achievements and challenges by industry on energy management and green growth policy initiatives.

Speaking at the conference, State Department of Energy Principal Secretary, Dr Eng. Joseph Njoroge reiterated the government’s commitment towards the production and use of clean energy in the country.

“The Ministry has put in place initiatives to enhance the efficiency of the energy sector. We fully support conservation of energy to build local capacity, reduce imports and build competitiveness for manufacturers. We want industry to drive renewable energy projects and we will provide an enabling environment towards this,” added Eng. Njoroge.

Kenya is one of the world leaders in geothermal energy production which is considered as clean or green energy because its carbon footprints on the environment is minimal. With the change of climate in many parts of the country, Kenyans have turned to utilising solar as a form of renewable energy.

In June this year, Kenya was ranked ninth globally ahead of Japan in new global geothermal power generating capacity report. Data from the report dubbed Renewables 2018 global, shows Kenya leading the continent with 700 Megawatts (MW). It also shows that the US has the largest geothermal generating capacity with 2,500 megawatts followed by the Philippines (1,900 MW).

KAM Vice Chairman Mr Mucai Kunyiha noted that affordable and clean energy is key in the realization of the Big 4 Agenda.

“The Association seeks to increase the manufacturing sector’s contribution to 15% by 2022, in line with the Government’s Big 4 Agenda. Improving energy efficiency has the clearest impact on saving money, improving business results and fostering economic growth. We will continue to undertake projects that stimulate investment and policy initiatives that promote green growth in the country,” added Mr Kunyiha.

KAM has been at the forefront of promoting a green economy through such initiatives as energy efficiency, water efficiency, waste management – PET plastic bottles and chemical wastes and green financing.