In a meeting held by the National Assembly departmental committee on energy, various energy regulators, including ministries, departments, and agencies, presented the 2023/2024 budget estimates. The Permanent Secretary of the State Department for Energy, Alex Wachira, along with Managing Directors, Chief Executive Officers, and other ministry heads, presented the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum’s projects aimed at enhancing efficient power generation, transmission, and distribution.
PS Wachira emphasized the importance of allocating adequate budgetary resources to realize the goals of the Kenya Kwanza Reign agendas. He mentioned that the government is committed to completing the pending projects related to last-mile electricity and transmission lines, particularly in the western region. PS Wachira also highlighted the government’s focus on promoting clean cooking and addressing deforestation in water catchment areas.
The PS underscored the significance of energy transmission and stated that the government is dedicated to ensuring the provision of clean and renewable energy. He noted that increased rainfall would help reduce the reliance on thermal generation.
In the context of the meeting, the chairman of the Energy Committee and legislator for Mwala Constituency, Hon. Vincent Musyoka Musau Kawaya, expressed his affirmation that the government is taking the necessary steps to ensure the country’s electrification. He emphasized the committee’s commitment to implementing changes and initiatives that would improve access to electricity and transform the energy sector.
Chairman Kawaya acknowledged the challenges faced by Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) and emphasized the need for better models and strategies to support the company’s operations. He also highlighted the committee’s focus on implementing street lighting infrastructure and proposing measures to assist Kenya Power in bill payments, indicating their dedication to improving the overall energy landscape.
Additionally, Chairman Kawaya emphasized the importance of the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC) in addressing Kenya’s socio-economic needs. He expressed confidence in the government’s efforts to empower REREC and its collaboration with KPLC to bring electricity to every corner of the country. By ensuring the procurement of meters and addressing project delays, they aim to facilitate the successful implementation of electrification projects.
Chairman Kawaya’s affirmations reflect the government’s commitment, as well as the Energy Committee’s determination, to provide adequate and efficient energy services for the benefit of the nation. He mentioned President Ruto’s determination to fulfill campaign promises, including providing every Kenyan with a gas cylinder.
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