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Counties are required to have Energy Plans revised every 2 years. As of February 2020, only 10 of the 47 Counties are in the process of putting together their Energy plans. Lois Gicheru

Kenya got its latest review of the Energy Act in 2019. With a myriad of updates touching on establishing an energy authority, to net metering and energy efficiency, Country Governments are also poised to win big from this latest release. 

Lois Gicheru of Solafrique joins us on another episode of the Africa Water and Energy podcast to break down where and how County governments in Kenya can make the most of the new law. Highlights of the conversation include:

* The current state of energy regulations in the Counties* Key highlights of the regulations touching on County Governments* How public and private entities can collaborate at County level* Challenges and possible solutions

The current state of energy regulations in the Counties

Previously, counties were relying on the National Government for regulations and policies relating to energy matters. It also meant that there was little need for Counties’ to have county-specific regulations as they were not mandated to do so. However, with the new Energy Act, Counties are required to have energy plans and policies specific to their realities. These plans are to be implemented, reviewed and updated once every 2 years. 

Highlights of the regulations touching on County Governments

The specific areas include:

* Development of County Energy Plans that take into account locally available resources. This will ensure inclusiveness and energy equity. The plans will also take a least-cost model that is tailored to address income and spatial distribution within the County.                                                                                                             * Setting up renewable energy centers. This will enable technology transfer and knowledge transfer ensuring long term growth of the sector.* Establishment of and energy efficiency and renewable energy fund to promote adoption and maintenance of renewable energy systems as well as promote the adoption of energy-efficient appliances and equipment. 

How public and private entities can collaborate at County level

Contribution by each side might unfold as follows:

* Private sector can bring expertise and work in partnership with the County governments to develop these plans. * Public-private partnerships can also attract funding for these initiatives. County governments can provide access and facilitate the process of developing these plans.

Challenges

⚠️Lack of technical capacity at the county level to develop and implement county energy plans