Connecting Kenya to the energy of tomorrow
Kenya and the European Union are working together to accelerate the transition to green energy. Through Global Gateway and the international pledging campaign ‘Scaling up Renewables in Africa’, the European Union is leading efforts to rapidly expand renewable energy across the continent, aiming to triple clean energy capacity by 2030. In Kenya this means investing in hydroelectric dams, electrification and transmission lines to provide clean, reliable and affordable electricity. These efforts create a positive impact on people’s lives, today and tomorrow.
Meet Catheline
I’m Catheline, one of the few women riding boda bodas in Kenya, and I’ve been doing this for over ten years. These days, I use an electric one to run my delivery business. From school drop-offs to shopping runs and courier jobs, every ride helps someone and supports my family too.
That’s why I’m grateful for clean energy. As power becomes more reliable, so does my work.
With stable, sustainable energy, I can keep my e-bike moving, plan my routes, and grow my business with confidence. And as I build a future on two wheels, I’m not just making deliveries, I’m driving real change for myself, my clients, and my community.
Meet Austin
I’m Austin, and I’ve been designing clothes since I was a kid in Nairobi. Today, I run Bolo Bespoke, my own fashion house, where I create tailored suits for clients who want to feel sharp, confident, and seen.
That’s why I’m grateful for clean energy. As power becomes more reliable, so does my craft.
With clean, stable energy, I can keep my machines running, my lights on, and my creativity flowing without pause. And as I continue building my brand, I’m not just tailoring suits — I’m shaping a future where local talent and clean power work hand in hand to move our industry forward.
Scaling up Renewables in Africa campaign
Part of a bigger mission
Africa has the power to become the most sustainable continent in the world. But despite this potential, millions of people across the continent still lack access to electricity. As Africa’s population and global climate challenges grow, the ‘Scaling up Renewables in Africa’ pledging campaign aims to unlock that potential. This transition via Global Gateway investments will provide affordable, sustainable, and reliable energy to the African people, while creating jobs and driving long-term growth.
ENERGY PROGRAMMES IN KENYA
Cleaner, more reliable electricity for underserved communities
Global Gateway initiative
Thanks to EU support through Global Gateway, early-stage clean energy companies in Kenya are reaching remote communities with off-grid systems, such as solar-powered kits, mini-grids and small hydropower projects. The Kenya Country Window under ElectriFI has already helped providing clean energy to families, schools and small businesses. The programme unlocks private investment to scale up innovation and deliver modern, affordable power where it's needed most.
Stronger electricity grid to support renewables and cut emissions
Global Gateway initiative
With EU backing under Global Gateway, Kenya is strengthening its national grid to better integrate renewable energy, reduce losses, blackouts and improve service for users across the country. The Reinforcement of the Electricity Transmission Network (RETNet) project includes a new national control centre, substations and capacity building for Kenya’s transmission operator. This will boost service for over users nationwide, enabling a more stable and efficient grid that carries more clean energy and reduces emissions.
More reliable electricity connections for homes, businesses and public services
Global Gateway initiative
Through EU support under Global Gateway, Kenya is improving access to cleaner and more reliable electricity. The Green Resilient Electricity System (GRES) programme supports resilient energy infrastructure development, including hydropower and geothermal power, grid expansion and modernization. Millions of people are expected to benefit through fewer power cuts, cleaner energy alternatives, and improved access to electricity for homes, businesses and public services.